WACO, Texas — Baylor University’s athletics director, Mack Rhoades, who also chairs the College Football Playoff selection committee, has come under scrutiny following an internal investigation into alleged altercations with a football player and an assistant coach during a game last month. The incidents, which reportedly involved verbal confrontations and physical contact, unfolded on the sidelines during Baylor’s matchup against Arizona State on September 20, prompting complaints and a university review that concluded with Rhoades expressing regret for his actions.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the first incident occurred just as the game was kicking off at McLane Stadium in Waco. Tight end Michael Trigg was preparing to take the field, wearing a long-sleeved yellow shirt over a shoulder brace as part of his uniform. Rhoades allegedly approached Trigg, placed his hands on the player, and demanded, “What the f--- are you wearing that yellow shirt for?” This exchange happened amid the bustle of the sidelines, with multiple assistant coaches nearby, and it reportedly left Trigg agitated as the Bears’ offense began their opening drive.
The timing was particularly notable, sources said, because it came right as Arizona State kicked off the ball to start the game. Trigg, despite the distraction, performed well, catching two touchdowns and accumulating 71 yards in receptions. Baylor ultimately lost on a last-second field goal by the Sun Devils, but the sideline tension lingered throughout the contest, with assistants working to calm Trigg down.
Things escalated further after the final whistle, according to multiple witnesses. As players mingled with fans and gathered for the school song, Rhoades allegedly approached an assistant coach from behind while the coach was visiting with his family. Sources reported that Rhoades grabbed the coach’s arm, then his shoulder and neck area, before verbally accosting him. This second incident was witnessed by several Baylor staff members, athletic department personnel, and family members, all in a public setting on the field.
OutKick, which first reported the details based on anonymous sources fearing retribution, obtained HR complaints filed anonymously in response to the events. These complaints highlighted the interactions with the student-athlete and coach. The assistant coach involved was not former Baylor assistant Mason Miller, who had left the team earlier for what head coach Dave Aranda described as a “personal matter.”
Baylor University confirmed the investigation in a statement provided to OutKick. “More than a month ago, Baylor University received reports of an incident involving Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Mack Rhoades,” the statement read. “These reports were thoroughly reviewed and investigated in accordance with University policies, appropriate actions were taken, and the matter is now closed. Mr. Rhoades has expressed regret over his emotions and recognizes his conduct at that moment was not reflective of our Christian mission and values.”
Mr. Rhoades is an important part of our Baylor Family, and we look forward to his continued leadership of our Athletics Department. We remain committed to ensuring a respectful and accountable environment for all of our student-athletes, coaches, and staff.
The university did not deny the specific allegations when presented with details by OutKick, nor did it elaborate on any disciplinary measures taken against Rhoades. Sources indicated that video evidence from cameras around McLane Stadium captured the incidents, though as a private institution, Baylor has not released it. Upwards of eight people reportedly witnessed the post-game altercation, and FOX Sports television cameras may have recorded the earlier sideline exchange.
Initially, Trigg and the assistant coach were asked to apologize to Rhoades, according to sources, but athletic department members later determined that Rhoades should be the one to apologize. The investigation involved questioning football staff and athletic department personnel present during both episodes. Baylor emphasized that the review was conducted in line with its policies, and the matter is now considered resolved internally.
Rhoades, who has served as Baylor’s athletics director since 2016, previously held the same role at the University of Missouri and the University of Houston. He took on the chairmanship of the College Football Playoff selection committee this year, a high-profile position that involves overseeing the process for determining the top teams in college football’s postseason. His tenure at Baylor has included navigating the program through various challenges, including the aftermath of a major scandal in 2016 involving sexual assault allegations that led to the firing of former coach Art Briles and other officials.
This latest incident adds to a series of controversies in college athletics involving sideline behavior. For instance, Arizona Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon is currently under investigation by the NFL Players Association after reportedly appearing to strike a player. Such events highlight ongoing concerns about appropriate conduct in high-pressure environments, particularly at institutions like Baylor, which emphasizes its Christian values.
Sources told OutKick that the investigation revealed the public nature of the incidents raised concerns about optics, especially given Rhoades’ prominent role. Witnesses noted that the post-game confrontation occurred in view of staff and families, potentially amplifying its impact. While Baylor has closed the matter, OutKick reported that not all parties may consider it fully resolved, and the outlet has reached out to the College Football Playoff and the NCAA for further comment.
The broader implications could affect Rhoades’ standing in college sports governance. As CFP chair, he plays a key role in decisions that influence millions in revenue and national championships. Any perceived lapses in judgment might draw scrutiny from other conference leaders or stakeholders. Baylor’s football program, under head coach Dave Aranda, has been rebuilding, with a 2-4 record in Big 12 play this season following the Arizona State loss.
Trigg, a junior tight end, has been a key contributor for the Bears, with his performance against Arizona State standing out despite the off-field drama. The unnamed assistant coach’s involvement underscores potential tensions within the program, though no further details on his identity or current status were provided in the reports.
As the story develops, attention will likely turn to whether external bodies like the NCAA or CFP take action. Baylor has not commented further beyond its initial statement, and Rhoades himself has not issued a personal response. The university continues to affirm its commitment to a respectful environment, but questions remain about accountability in leadership roles within college athletics.