Texas Tech QB Brendan Sorsby Enters Gambling Addiction Treatment, Reportedly Placed Thousands of Bets

Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby has taken an immediate indefinite leave of absence after reported sports betting activity led to an NCAA review.

Good to Know

• Brendan Sorsby reportedly placed thousands of online wagers on a sports betting app.
• Texas Tech said he will enter a residential program for gambling addiction treatment.
• ESPN reported no law enforcement case and no evidence tied to game manipulation.

NCAA Betting Rules Put Sorsby Eligibility In Question

Texas Tech framed the situation around health first. The school announced Monday that Sorsby would step away from football and enter treatment, while ESPN reported the case has been treated as a “mental health matter.”

Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire said:

“We love Brendan and support his decision to seek professional help.

“Taking this step requires courage, and our primary focus is on him as a person. Our program is behind Brendan as he prioritizes his health.”

At the same time, ESPN reported that the NCAA is reviewing whether Sorsby broke gambling rules by placing thousands of online bets. NCAA rules bar athletes from betting on college or pro sports, and wagers involving a player own team can carry the strongest penalty, including permanent loss of eligibility.

The reported betting activity dates back to Sorsby time at Indiana. ESPN sources said he placed bets on Indiana to win while he was a redshirt freshman in 2022. He appeared in one game that season, and ESPN reported he did not bet on that game.

No official NCAA decision has been announced. ESPN also reported that Sorsby is not under law enforcement investigation, and sources found no evidence connected to game manipulation.

The case involves one of the highest profile players in college football. Sorsby transferred after throwing for 2,800 yards and 27 touchdowns at Cincinnati in 2025, then became one of the top names in the 2026 transfer portal. He also now becomes the most prominent college player publicly tied to gambling addiction treatment.

FAQ

Why Is Brendan Sorsby Taking Leave From Texas Tech?

Texas Tech said Brendan Sorsby is taking an immediate indefinite leave to enter a residential gambling addiction treatment program.

Is Brendan Sorsby Under NCAA Review?

Yes, ESPN reported that the NCAA is reviewing his reported online sports betting activity.

Did Brendan Sorsby Bet On His Own Games?

ESPN reported that Sorsby bet on Indiana to win while he was a redshirt freshman in 2022, but not on the one game he played that season.

Could Brendan Sorsby Lose NCAA Eligibility?

Yes. NCAA policy can allow a permanent loss of eligibility when an athlete bets on a player own team.