Texas Tech to prohibit tortilla throwing as Big 12 threatens penalties, fines: ‘The stakes are too high’

Key Takeaways:

• Texas Tech football has ended its long-standing tortilla-throwing tradition.
• The Big 12 conference warned of possible penalties and fines.
• Officials declared “the stakes are too high” to allow the practice to continue.
• Fans have been tossing tortillas at games for decades.
• The policy change follows increased scrutiny and arrives in October 2025.

Texas Tech’s Unique Football Tradition

For decades, fans of the Texas Tech Red Raiders have been known for one particular game-day spectacle: throwing tortillas into the stands as the team took the field. This ritual became a recognizable part of the electric atmosphere at Jones AT&T Stadium, with tortillas often seen sailing overhead before the opening kickoff.

The Big 12’s Warning and Consequences

The Big 12 conference, however, has taken issue with the practice, expressing concerns about potential hazards and violations of league policies. In a cautionary statement, the conference made it clear that future instances of tortilla throwing could lead to severe repercussions for Texas Tech. Officials stated “the stakes are too high,” underscoring how seriously the league views the issue. The warning also referenced the possibility of both financial fines and other penalties that would impact the Red Raiders program.

University’s Response and Fan Reactions

Responding to the Big 12’s ultimatum, Texas Tech announced that the throwing of tortillas is now strictly prohibited. Although this marks the end of a tradition many fans cherish, the decision aims to preserve the team’s standing within the conference. While the new policy may initially disappoint some longtime supporters, university officials emphasize that safeguarding the reputation and compliance of the Red Raiders must take priority.