Recently, reports surfaced about Baylor’s Athletic Director Mac Rhoades, who heads the College Football Playoff (CFP), being embroiled in a sideline incident with tight end Michael Trigg, followed by a confrontation with an assistant coach post-game. This has prompted an investigation and raised personnel concerns.
On Tuesday evening, during the CFP rankings announcement on ESPN, Rhoades wasn’t questioned about the September 20 incident. It’s not entirely unexpected, considering the CFP’s substantial agreement with the network. Rhoades, in a later appearance, also chose not to discuss what happened.
In a call with reporters after his release, Rhoades avoided the topic entirely. It’s worth mentioning that Outkick had initially planned to ask him about the allegations, but that opportunity didn’t come around.
Investigation into the Rhoades Incident
The incident transpired as Baylor prepared for a matchup against Arizona State. Trigg was set to play and was wearing a distinctive yellow shirt due to a shoulder brace. Allegedly, Rhoades confronted Trigg just before the game kicked off, questioning his choice of attire.
After the game, while the players were thanking fans, Rhoades is said to have approached Trigg from behind, engaging with an assistant coach in an inappropriate manner. Multiple sources claim he grabbed the coach’s arm and became verbally aggressive, actions observed by several people in the athletic department as well as family members of the assistant coach. Notably, there’s video evidence of the incident.
Following the situation, OutKick reported that a human resources complaint was filed anonymously. Investigations are ongoing, with staff members being questioned about what occurred. Baylor’s head coach, Dave Aranda, was reluctant to discuss the implications of the incident on the team, stating it was above his authority.
Baylor University has acknowledged the reports of the incident involving Rhoades, noting that they reviewed and investigated the claims appropriately. A statement outlined that Rhoades has expressed regret regarding his actions, which were said to be inconsistent with the university’s values.
There were multiple eyewitnesses to the second incident, and the overall optics were concerning for the university. With at least eight individuals observing, including stadium cameras, the matter is not taken lightly.
Looking ahead, it remains uncertain when Rhoades will address the allegations. There’s speculation he might discuss it during an upcoming CFP teleconference or perhaps once the regular season wraps up.
