Big 12 Head of Officiating Gives Worst Answer Possible to Whether 'Horns Down' is a Penalty

The Texas Longhorns have used the "Horns" symbol for many years, making it one of the most recognized gestures in college sports. When opponents have produced against Texas, they take that symbol and turn it upside down as a sign of disrespect. Yet the "Horns Down" phenomenon has been penalized by Big 12 officials, stating that it is a taunting penalty.

When officials were asked at a press conference whether or not "Horns Down" will be a penalty next season, the head of officiating for the conference replied with the worst answer you can possibly give.

“It depends” is not a great officiating position to take. Either ban it or allow it, none of this ambiguity. https://t.co/J7l7aVai4g
— Bryan Fischer (@BryanDFischer) July 16, 2019

By saying, "It depends," the officials are merely allowing their indecisiveness to continue to go unpunished. At this point, you either have to ban it or allow it, but you surely cannot let whether a penalty will be called or not remain a mystery.

It's been the most eventful year in Horns Down history. But is that even necessarily bad for Texas? Here's a little history from @Barry_Switzer, @CBSCoachNutt, @thrill333, @CoachDykesSMU, @thEMANacho, sports psychologists, the pork rinds guy, and more.https://t.co/J6nQmQtnif
— Dave Wilson (@dwil) July 12, 2019

For a sport that prides itself on toughness and rivalries, this "Horns Down" celebration should be allowed as it creates an additional level of competitiveness amongst Texas and their rivals.

Big 12 officiating needs to be better, and they have to clarify this celebration issue and fast.