The NCAA is asking an appeals court for an expedited ruling on Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby's eligibility before the college football season begins, according to legal filings. A district judge previously granted Sorsby a temporary injunction allowing him to play after he admitted to betting on college football while receiving treatment for gambling and anxiety disorders.

The governing body argues that permitting Sorsby to play undermines competitive integrity and encourages other athletes to challenge NCAA decisions in court rather than accepting discipline. NCAA attorneys contend the injunction creates an impossible choice for other schools: compete against Sorsby and accept a court-ordered competitive imbalance, or withdraw to protect the sport's integrity.

Sorsby wagered over 9,000 bets totaling at least $90,000 across three schools, including 40 bets on his own team at Texas Tech. While the NCAA found no evidence of game manipulation, the case has drawn backlash including boycott threats, a Big 12 lawsuit, and letters from four state attorneys general. The NCAA wants resolution by August 28, the day before the season starts, to prevent what they call 'temporary' relief from becoming permanent.

Sorsby's attorney did not respond to requests for comment. The initial trial was scheduled for February, after the College Football Playoff championship.