Two Referees Suspended Seven Games Following Controversial TCU-Baylor Game
Fort Worth, Texas – The Big 12 Conference announced today the seven-game suspension of two referees, Marques Pettigrew and Doug Sirmons, following a final investigation into officiating errors during the highly contested TCU-Baylor game played on Sunday, March 2025. The decision comes after significant backlash from fans, coaches, and analysts regarding several controversial calls made during the match.
While the specifics of the errors remain undisclosed by the Big 12, the investigation concluded that multiple significant calls directly impacted the game’s outcome. Reports suggest that these errors included missed penalties, incorrect interpretations of rules, and questionable judgment calls that significantly disadvantaged one of the competing teams. The outcome of the game, the details of which remain unspecified, was heavily influenced by these officiating errors.
The suspensions of Pettigrew and Sirmons represent a strong response from the Big 12 to the criticism surrounding the game. The seven-game penalty is a significant sanction, highlighting the conference’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and fairness of its games. This decisive action aims to send a clear message that substandard officiating will not be tolerated and that accountability will be enforced.
The impact of these suspensions will be felt throughout the remainder of the season. The absence of two experienced referees will undoubtedly affect the officiating crews of upcoming games. The Big 12 will need to appoint replacements, ensuring that the league’s schedule remains unaffected. This situation also underscores the importance of consistent training and rigorous evaluation for referees at all levels of competition.
The TCU-Baylor game will now be remembered not only for its intense competition and close score but also for the significant controversy surrounding the officiating. The suspensions serve as a reminder of the crucial role referees play in ensuring fair play and the potential consequences of significant errors in judgment. The Big 12’s actions demonstrate a commitment to addressing these issues and maintaining the integrity of the sport.
