Play-by-play man Brian Jensen and analyst John Harris under fire
In accordance with Big 12 Conference Sportsmanship and Ethical Conduct policies, the Conference has issued a public reprimand of the Texas Tech radio booth announcers. They have also been removed from announcing the Tech game on November 20th. The actions have been taken in response to comments during Saturday’s football game broadcast against Iowa State.
“I understand the roles of the play-by-play and color analyst,” commented Commissioner Bob Bowlsby. “However as University representatives they also have an obligation to adhere to Conference policy regarding comments about game officials. The comments by the Red Raider Radio Network booth announcers were contrary to expected levels of respect and professionalism. Questioning the integrity of Conference officials and specifically calling out members of the officiating crew is well beyond appropriate and permissible behavior.”
THIS IS WHAT GOT HANSEN AND HARRIS IN TROUBLE
The announcers went after the officials when they overturned an interception at the goal line by Texas Tech defensive back Dadrion Taylor-Demerson with 7:25 to go in the game.
“I’ll say it right now, the Big 12 does not want Iowa State to lose this game,” Harris said during the broadcast.
“Yeah, Bob Bowlsby, you need to answer to this,” Jensen added. “This is ridiculous. The inconsistency of this referee crew in favor of Iowa State. Unbelievable.”
After the officials reversed the call, Texas Tech students started throwing objects onto the field. Officials issued the Red Raiders an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, and the students were forced to leave the stadium.
STATEMENT COURTESY BIG 12 CONFERENCE COMMUNICATIONS
QUOTES FROM TEXAS TECH GAME BROADCAST
