The University of Cincinnati has been cleared of any NCAA penalties after an investigation into former quarterback Brendan Sorsby’s involvement in sports betting. This inquiry, which began earlier in the summer, was prompted by revelations regarding Sorsby’s gambling activities during his time at the university.
According to a report from the Cincinnati Enquirer, the NCAA's investigation was officially closed, with the university confirming that Sorsby received a Level III violation. A spokesperson for Cincinnati stated, “Earlier this summer, NCAA enforcement staff completed an inquiry into a former Cincinnati student-athlete’s prohibited betting activity during his time at the university.” The spokesperson further clarified that the inquiry found Sorsby’s actions to be isolated and limited in nature, meaning that all consequences were directed solely at the student-athlete rather than the institution or its staff.
The NCAA defines a Level III violation as a minor infraction, which does not carry significant penalties for the school involved. Cincinnati maintained a cooperative stance throughout the investigation, working closely with NCAA officials as the situation unfolded. This inquiry gained traction after Sorsby publicly acknowledged his gambling issues and sought treatment for a gambling addiction.
Brendan Sorsby’s situation became widely known when he checked into a rehabilitation facility earlier this year. Reports indicated that he had been betting on games involving the Indiana Hoosiers while serving as a backup quarterback. This revelation raised questions about the university's awareness of his activities, with some sources suggesting that Cincinnati officials were aware of Sorsby’s gambling habits as far back as the fall of 2025.
As a result of his betting violations, Sorsby faced significant repercussions for his collegiate football career. His transfer to Texas Tech was one of the most notable quarterback moves during the offseason, but the implications of his betting activities meant he would not take the field for the Red Raiders. Following the public exposure of his gambling history, he was deemed ineligible for the 2026 season.
In June, Sorsby received a temporary injunction from a Texas court that allowed him to play for Texas Tech, albeit after serving a two-game suspension. This decision drew criticism from other institutions within the Big 12 Conference, leading to tensions that ultimately resulted in Sorsby and Texas Tech parting ways. Subsequently, Sorsby applied for the NFL’s supplemental draft, but the league opted not to hold a draft this summer, effectively sidelining him for the 2026 season. He is now set to be eligible for the 2027 NFL Draft.
The Cincinnati case underscores the ongoing scrutiny surrounding sports betting in college athletics, particularly as more states legalize gambling and the NCAA continues to adapt its policies. With Cincinnati now free from any penalties, the focus shifts back to Sorsby as he navigates the next steps in his football career.
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