Texas Tech will be trying to put toothpaste back in a tube this Saturday.
Talk about poor timing. The Red Raiders return home to Lubbock after a devastating loss, and just when they need their crowd the most, they’re banning one of the most recognizable hometown traditions — the kickoff tortilla toss.
A Texas Tech Tradition in Trouble
Tech officials claim they voted against the Big 12’s enforcement of the rule, calling it “our tradition.” Unfortunately, that comment may have backfired. Fans are now more confused than ever, unsure whether the university truly wants them to stop or is just trying to avoid fines and penalties. Either way, it’s a public relations mess.
From Lids to Tortillas
The tradition’s origin isn’t as nefarious as some think. It actually began with drink lids being thrown during games before morphing into the now-iconic tortilla toss. Some have argued it’s insensitive or problematic, but its roots were never racial — it was simply about finding something cheap and aerodynamic to launch.
A Bad Habit That Won’t Quit At Texas Tech
Still, throwing things at large events has always been a problem. As someone who’s seen concerts nearly canceled over flying objects, I can say it’s reckless behavior from overzealous fans. The tortilla toss, fun as it looks, became too mainstream to control.
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When kickoff rolls around, expect to see tortillas flying anyway. This toothpaste isn’t going back in the tube — it’s a mess Tech will be cleaning up for years.
Texas Tech’s Tortilla Throwing Tradition
Gallery Credit: Topher Covarrubio
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