Texas Tech Ends Tortilla-Throwing Tradition After Big 12 Penalties

Texas Tech University has officially ended the long-standing tradition of fans throwing tortillas during the opening kickoff at home football games, a practice dating back to the 1990s. Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt announced the decision, emphasizing the need to avoid penalties that have recently impacted the team's performance, especially after the Red Raiders were penalized twice in a game against Kansas due to tortilla throwing. The move comes in response to a Big 12 Conference crackdown, which initially allowed an exception for tortillas but later imposed stricter penalties, including a $100,000 fine for violations, following repeated infractions and fines to Texas Tech and other schools. Hocutt, who was the lone vote against the initial Big 12 rule change, acknowledged the significance of the tradition but stressed the importance of supporting the team by adhering to the new ban. The ban took effect immediately, ahead of Texas Tech's game against Oklahoma State, as the program aims to maintain its promising season without risking further penalties or fines. Fans and observers recognize the decision as a tough but necessary change to preserve the team's competitive edge and compliance with conference regulations.