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Big 12 suspends Texas Tech radio crew after criticism of referees

John E. Moore III / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The Big 12 removed Texas Tech radio play-by-play announcer Brian Jensen and color analyst John Harris for Saturday's game against Oklahoma State in response to their on-air comments criticizing the conference's game officials during last week's win over Iowa State.

"I understand the roles of the play-by-play and color analyst," Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby said in a statement. "However, as university representatives, they also have an obligation to adhere to conference policy regarding comments about game officials.

"The comments by the Red Raider Radio Network booth announcers were contrary to expected levels of respect and professionalism. Questioning the integrity of conference officials and specifically calling out members of the officiating crew is well beyond appropriate and permissible behavior."

Jensen and Harris took issue with numerous calls made against Texas Tech throughout the game, especially in the fourth quarter.

"That is absolutely another horrendous call, or no-call," Harris said after a hard hit on Red Raiders receiver Myles Price wasn't reviewed for targeting, according to Sam Khan Jr. of The Athletic.

"This officiating crew and the replay crew, which has been absolutely horrible today, an egregious non-review of it right there. That is absolute targeting and they are not even going to look at it," Harris added.

The announcers also had strong comments after officials overturned a goal-line interception by Texas Tech's Dadrion Taylor-Demerson with 7:25 left in the game and the Red Raiders up 38-28.

"I'll say it right now, the Big 12 does not want Iowa State to lose this game," Harris said, according to ESPN's Dave Wilson.

Jensen added, "Bob Bowlsby, you need to answer to this. ... This is ridiculous. The inconsistency of this referee crew in favor of Iowa State. Unbelievable."

Texas Tech fans threw objects on the field after the interception was overturned, resulting in an unsportsmanlike conduct call against the team.

"The Big 12 should be embarrassed with this group. We've only pointed out two guys. I'm gonna read 'em all to you," said Jensen, who then named every member of the officiating crew.

Texas Tech went on to win 41-38 on a 62-yard walk-off field goal. After the game, the Red Raiders' Twitter account ironically tweeted, "This final score can't be overturned."

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