The Big 12 has fined Utah athletic director Mark Harlan $40,000 after he berated the league and its officials in the wake of the Utes' 22-21 loss to BYU.
The conference has also issued a public reprimand for his actions.
“Mark’s comments irresponsibly challenged the professionalism of our officials and the integrity of the Big 12 Conference,” Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark said in a statement. “There is a right way and a wrong way to voice concerns. Unfortunately, Mark chose the wrong way. Accordingly, this violation warrants a public reprimand and financial penalty. The Big 12 Conference prioritizes professionalism, integrity, and fairness, and will continue to do so.”
Harlan has been informed by the conference that a “repeat of such behavior” will result in an additional penalty. Utah’s athletic director released a statement on Sunday evening following his punishment from the Big 12.
“Last night following our game against BYU, I made clear my feelings related to the game officiating,” Harlan said in a statement. “However, I recognize that there are more appropriate times and avenues to express those concerns, and I accept the consequences of my decision. My comments came after having just left our team locker room where our student-athletes were hurting and upset.
“The University of Utah is proud to be a member of the Big 12 Conference and we look forward to working with our peers to continue to enhance the league. BYU, Coach Sitake and their coaches and student-athletes are having a terrific season and we wish them the very best.”
Harlan was seen visibly upset after the officials called a fourth down holding call on senior cornerback Zemaiah Vaughn. The penalty granted the Cougars a new set of downs and, ultimately, allowed Utah’s in-state rival to win the game.
Images show Harlan on the field as Utah attempted to lateral the ball multiple times in hopes of scoring on the game’s final kickoff.
Afterward, Harlan was seen wagging his finger at one league official before airing out his frustrations to reporters in the press conference room at Rice-Eccles Stadium.
“This game was absolutely stolen from us,” Harlan said. “We were excited about being in the Big 12, but tonight I am not. We won this game. Someone else stole it from us. Very disappointed.
“I will talk to the commissioner. This was not fair to our team. I’m disgusted by the professionalism of the officiating crew tonight.”
According to its statement, the Big 12 will have no further comment on the issue.
