Jun 20, 2026, 1:03 PM CUT

Despite Brendan Sorsby Exit, Texas Tech Projected as Big 12 Title Contender

A while ago, programs across the Power Four conferences were threatening to boycott Texas Tech. Now with their controversial quarterback, Brendan Sorsby, gone, the program has gained major confidence from experts.

“...the country's top 10 or so teams in terms of 2027 NFL draft prospects -- right at the top of the Big 12, along with Texas Tech,” CBS Sports new ranking said.

In a listicle posted on June 19, Matt Zenitz and Chris Hummer ranked college programs on their chances to win a title. Their confidence in Texas Tech is surprising, as the program was involved in a landmark legal battle with Sorsby and the NCAA.

The quarterback had sued the NCAA for prohibiting his football activities at Texas Tech for g******* and placing b***. He sought a temporary injunction from a Texas court, and Judge Ken Curry granted him that.

What was the gravitas of the Brendan Sorsby Fiasco?

The unprecedented ruling caused an uproar in the college football community. Various athletic directors stated they were considering boycotting Texas Tech. The Big 12 board of directors went a step further and sued Texas Tech.

They parted ways with Sorsby within hours and he declared for the NFL Supplemental Draft.

“Despite losing Brendan Sorsby to the NFL supplemental draft, there remains optimism about the state of Texas Tech’s quarterback room,” Zenitz and Hummer wrote . “Sources indicate that sophomore Will Hammond continues to progress well in his recovery from a torn ACL and believe he’ll be available for Tech's Big 12 opener against Houston in Week 3.”

Will Hammond is coming off a torn ACL injury. The second-year QB threw for 690 passing yards, seven passing touchdowns and three interceptions. In May, Texas Tech had said Hammond would be fine within a month.

“McGuire said Hammond will be able to participate in player-led 7-on-7 drills in June, and he could be game-ready as soon as the Week 2 trip to Oregon State on Sept. 12,” ESPN reported.

CBS has made its guess on Texas Tech, but what about Sorsby’s future? What are your thoughts on this prediction? Tell us in the comments.

Written by

Akanksha Biradar