LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Texas Tech Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt announced the athletic department will no longer permit the throwing of tortillas at opening kickoff.
“As we move forward, we are no longer going to encourage nor permit the throwing of tortillas at the opening kickoff for our home football games,” Hocutt said Monday during a weekly news conference with coach Joey McGuire.
The announcement comes after Texas Tech received a fine from the Big 12 for fans continuing to throw tortillas onto the field well after kickoff during the homecoming game against Kansas.
Some Texas Tech students responded to the banning of tortillas, and while they say they’re understanding of the situation, they’re still upset with the decision.
“I was shocked because when I first came here, everyone was saying the tortilla throwing was tradition,” freshman Kristin Keroti said, “so just hearing that they banned it, I can’t believe they kind of just threw away the whole tradition.”
Another first-year student agreed with Keroti and said although it’s an understanding move by Texas Tech, the tradition is being taken away from new Red Raiders.
“I kind of understand why,” Tochi Emerruem said, “but it kind of hurt a little bit, because being part of that tradition and especially being a freshman and everything, it was a great experience. There’s nothing to look forward to now.”
However, one student said he will continue to throw the tortillas during the opening kickoff despite the ban. He also doesn’t expect to be the only one going against the new rule.
“As a student, I’m going to bring tortillas, I’m going to throw them at the field,” freshman Drew Bitel said. “I think as strong as our community is, there’s going to be a huge reaction towards it. There’s going to be more tortillas thrown today than there was previously.”
Red Raiders have always shown the nation what a special place this is, especially on game days. Texas Tech is known for having some of the most passionate and loyal fans anywhere. Like all Red Raiders, I share that pride.
This season, we’re in the national spotlight, and that’s…
— Lawrence Schovanec (@TexasTechPres) October 20, 2025
Last week, the Big 12 announced increased penalties for throwing objects on the field. The first violation will be a warning from the public announcer, the second violation results in a 15-yard penalty and a $100,000 fine.
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