Texas apologizes to Georgia and issues a warning to Longhorns fans.

The Texas Longhorns have issued an apology for the behavior of their fans during Saturday’s loss to Georgia, while also sending a warning to supporters. Tensions rose after a third-quarter interception was overturned due to a pass interference call, leading angry fans to throw trash onto the field. At the time, Texas was trailing 23-8, and safety Jahdae Barron had intercepted a pass and returned it to Georgia’s 9-yard line.

AUSTIN, TEXAS – OCTOBER 19: Texas Longhorns fans throw bottles onto the field after a defensive pass interference call overturned an interception against the Georgia Bulldogs during the third quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on October 19, 2024 in Austin, Texas. The call was reversed giving Texas the ball. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)

However, the interception was initially nullified by the pass interference call, sparking frustration among fans, especially after replays showed the interception. Some in the student section began throwing debris, prompting head coach Steve Sarkisian to step in and urge them to stop. The call was eventually reversed after a stoppage, allowing Texas to regain possession and score a touchdown, though they ultimately lost 30-15.

Texas fans threw debris onto the field after an interception was called back due to pass interference.

The refs reversed the call after further discussion. pic.twitter.com/3PAgLcD1hQ

— ESPN (@espn) October 20, 2024

On Sunday, Texas issued an apology to Georgia and the SEC for the behavior of some fans during the game. The statement acknowledged the passion of Texas supporters but condemned the unsportsmanlike actions of those who threw objects onto the field. It expressed sincere apologies to Georgia’s players, coaches, fans, the Southeastern Conference, and the officiating crew.

The statement, attributed to Texas Board of Regents chairman Kevin Eltife, UT president Jay Hartzell, and athletic director Chris Del Conte, emphasized that such behavior would not be tolerated in the future. It highlighted Texas’ commitment to respect, sportsmanship, and fairness, urging fans to uphold these values and vowing to take measures to prevent similar incidents.