The Texas Tech Red Raiders, a prominent collegiate football team, have taken a decisive step to end the long-standing tradition of fans throwing tortillas during their home games. The move, prompted by the Big 12 Conference’s increased emphasis on field safety and the recent penalties incurred for violating these rules, highlights the growing concern over the risks associated with such behavior. The tradition, which dates back to the 1990s, has now been officially halted following a series of incidents that prompted both fan and official reactions.
At a recent press conference, Kirby Hocutt, the Red Raiders’ athletic director, and head football coach Joey McGuire announced that the university would no longer encourage or permit tortilla throwing during game kickoffs. Hocutt admitted that he played a key role in promoting the practice, now acknowledging the need for a change to prioritize safety and player integrity. The decision comes as a result of several penalties incurred during the previous season, including two instances where fans were penalized for throwing tortillas onto the field during games against the Kansas Jayhawks. These actions were in direct violation of the Big 12 Conference’s updated rules.
The Big 12 Conference, which represents multiple universities, including Texas Tech, has taken a firm stance on the issue, voting to implement stricter policies regarding on-field conduct. If the school continues to violate these rules, it could face a $100,000 fine and potential consequences for fans, including loss of ticket privileges. This decision reflects the growing trend among collegiate football programs to balance tradition with the need for safety and order within the stadium environment.
Coach McGuire expressed frustration over the behavior, questioning whether the fans truly supported the team’s efforts. The move also comes at a critical time for Texas Tech, which recently suffered an upset loss to Arizona State, impacting their national ranking. The team remains a top contender at No. 14 and will face Oklahoma State in the upcoming home game, making the need for a unified fan base more crucial than ever. As the Red Raiders prepare for the new season, the discontinuation of the tortilla tradition signals a shift toward a more structured and respectful approach to their game-day experience.