University of Texas athletic director Chris Del Conte apologized for the top-ranked Longhorns' vulgar on-field celebrations during their win over Tennessee and called them "embarrassing" for the school. In rare criticism directed at his own program and players, Del Conte addressed the fallout from celebrations by defensive end Colin Simmons and running back Raleek Brown in his weekly "Forty Acres Insider" blog post. During Texas' 20-17 win, Simmons was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct for mimicking urinating on the field after a sack, and Brown's touchdown celebration included putting his hand to his crotch.

"I'm not happy about that, I know none of us are, and it was embarrassing to our proud and widely respected football team, athletics program and university," Del Conte wrote. He noted that coach Steve Sarkisian called the celebrations unacceptable and discussed the matter with the players, who will face undisclosed discipline. Del Conte said similar conduct "cannot happen again." Simmons apologized in his postgame comments.

"I also want to add my apology to our Longhorn community and everyone who expects better from Texas," Del Conte wrote. "We should represent this university with class, dignity and respect at all times." This is the third time Texas has addressed controversies since rising to No. 1 after beating Ohio State, including quarterback Arch Manning apologizing for laughing at an AI-generated video and a coach being suspended for DWI.