Big 12 suspends officiating crew for missed rule violation in Week 2 controversy

Big 12 suspends officiating crew after controversial Kansas-Missouri rules error

The Big 12 has suspended one of its officiating crews because of a missed rule violation. | Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

The Big 12 Conference has suspended an officiating crew after a rules violation marred Missouri’s 42-31 victory over Kansas on Saturday. The incident occurred in the first quarter of the Border Showdown, a rivalry that returned this year after more than a decade-long hiatus.

Following Missouri’s opening touchdown, the Tigers were flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct. Kansas blocked the extra point, setting up an unusual sequence on the ensuing kickoff. Instead of enforcing NCAA protocol, the officials allowed a punt on a free kick, which is prohibited under Rule 2, Section 16, Article 6. The error sparked immediate scrutiny and led to the league’s decision to remove the crew from its next assignment.

“This officiating crew did not meet the high standards set by our league,” Big 12 chief football and competition officer Scott Draper said. “When the Conference’s high standard for officiating is not met, the Big 12 will take action.” The conference did not disclose which game the group was pulled from, though two league games are scheduled for Friday.

Big 12 Statement on Kansas-Missouri Officiating Error

The league issued its ruling on Tuesday, confirming the violation and explaining the disciplinary action. The mistake involved a fundamental misapplication of the rulebook, leading to one of the most unusual officiating controversies of the young season.

Allowing a punt on a free kick created a procedural problem that could have impacted the competitive flow of the game. Though Missouri ultimately controlled the contest with a strong rushing attack led by Jamal Roberts and Ahmad Hardy, the spotlight shifted to the officiating. Kansas had built an early 21-6 lead behind quarterback Beau Pribula’s efficient passing, but the Tigers dominated the ground game and closed with a decisive win.

The Big 12’s action also sends a message about transparency and oversight during one of the most anticipated rivalry renewals of the season. The Border Showdown, played for the first time since Missouri departed for the SEC in 2011, drew heavy attention and carried emotional weight for both fan bases. By acknowledging the misstep and suspending the crew, the Big 12 reinforced its emphasis on integrity and consistency in competition.

From the Big 12: “The Big 12 officials in Saturday's Kansas-Missouri game allowed a punt to occur on a free kick in violation of Rule 2 Section 16 Article 6 of NCAA Football rules. That Big 12 officiating crew has been removed from its next scheduled assignment on 9/12.”

— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) September 9, 2025

Draper’s statement highlighted the league’s belief that accountability is essential to maintaining credibility, especially in an era of expanded media coverage and instant replay review. While the outcome of the game may not have changed, the conference’s response ensures that errors of this magnitude are not dismissed quietly.

The rivalry will continue to grow in its second act, but the officiating decision now stands as an early-season example of how conferences manage credibility and trust in the modern game.

The Big 12 has acted decisively, but all eyes will remain on how its officiating program responds in the weeks ahead.