The SEC has ruled that the "Horns Down" taunt will not be penalized, reversing a previous rule in the Big 12. Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers believes this change will not significantly impact the team and sees it as a potential motivator.
The infamous "Horns Down" taunt, traditionally directed at Texas Longhorns players, will not be penalized in the SEC, according to a ruling by conference coordinator of officials John McDaid. This decision marks a departure from the Big 12, where the celebration previously resulted in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.
Horns Down Taunt Legal in SEC, Texas Quarterback Ewers Unfazed
The change in policy has been met with mixed reactions. Some believe the taunt is harmless and should not be penalized, while others find it disrespectful and deserving of punishment. Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers falls into the former camp, stating that the taunt does not particularly bother him or his teammates.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Ewers expressed his indifference towards the Horns Down, admitting that it can be "a little bit salty," but ultimately does not affect the team's performance. He believes that the taunt is a reflection of the opposition's desire to provoke emotion, which he sees as a positive motivator.
Horns Down Taunt Legal in SEC, Texas Quarterback Ewers Unfazed
"If people want to do it, and it’s that big of a deal where they want to do it, then I don’t have a problem with them allowing to do it," Ewers said. "But at the end of the day, it’s just fuel to the fire."
Ewers acknowledged that the taunt may hold more significance for Oklahoma fans, who have not been able to direct it at Texas players in recent seasons. However, he believes that the Longhorns will be prepared for any attempts to rile them up.
Horns Down Taunt Legal in SEC, Texas Quarterback Ewers Unfazed
The Horns Down taunt has a long history in college football, originating as a symbol of disrespect towards the Texas Longhorns. The gesture was popularized by rivals, particularly Oklahoma State, and became a common sight at games involving the two teams.
Ewers, who grew up a Longhorns fan, understands the historical significance of the taunt. However, he maintains that it has little impact on his team's mentality and may even serve as a source of motivation.
McDaid, the SEC coordinator of officials, explained the conference's decision to legalize the Horns Down taunt. He stated that the gesture is not considered offensive to the general public and would not warrant a penalty if it were performed outside a football setting.
"The act itself needs to be offending to the senses," McDaid said. "If you took that act out of a football stadium and did it in a shopping mall or a grocery store, would it offend the senses to a majority of the reasonable people in the area? That signal would not."
The Texas Longhorns will open their season on August 31 at home against Colorado State. They will then face a marquee matchup against Michigan on September 7. Texas' first SEC game will be on September 28 against Mississippi State, providing the team with its first opportunity to experience the new officiating rules for the Horns Down taunt.
As the Longhorns navigate their SEC debut, the Horns Down taunt will likely be a recurring topic of discussion. While some opponents may attempt to use it as a psychological weapon, Ewers and his teammates seem confident in their ability to remain unfazed and use it as a source of motivation.
