Big 12 fines Colorado, issues public reprimand for inappropriate chants vs. BYU

On Tuesday, the Big 12 announced it is fining Colorado $50,000 for inappropriate chants that occurred when the Buffaloes hosted BYU this past Saturday. Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark released a statement regarding the conference’s decision.

“Hateful and discriminatory language has no home in the Big 12 Conference,” Yormark wrote. “While we appreciate Colorado apologizing for the chants that occurred in the stands during Saturday’s game, the Big 12 maintains zero tolerance for such behavior. Colorado will receive a $50,000 fine in accordance with our Conference policies.”

Videos circulated online of Colorado’s fans chanting, “F*** the Mormons,” along with other distasteful chants. On Monday, Colorado released a statement condemning its fans’ actions.

“The University of Colorado Boulder strongly condemns the use of expletives and religious slurs by individuals in the stands during the recent football game against BYU,” the statement read. “Such behavior is deeply disappointing and does not reflect the values of respect, inclusion and integrity we expect of our campus community.

“Attending sporting events at CU Boulder is a privilege, and with that comes the responsibility to uphold our Fan Code of Conduct. The university and CU Athletics have a strict policy when it comes to abusive behavior, and those found to have engaged in conduct that is not consistent with our values are held accountable.”

BYU defeated Colorado 24-21 on Saturday. The Buffaloes jumped out to an early 14-3 lead before the Cougars eventually clawed their way back into the game.

Colorado’s offense couldn’t find a rhythm in the loss, only tallying 291 total yards. The Buffaloes especially struggled in the pass game. Colorado quarterback Kaidon Salter completed 11-of-his-16 pass attempts for 119 yards and a touchdown, while also throwing an interception.

Meanwhile, BYU quarterback Bear Bachmeier shined, tallying 179 passing yards and two touchdowns, compared to no interceptions. Bachmeier also led the Cougars in the ground game, picking up 98 rushing yards in the win.

With the victory, BYU improved to 4-0 on the season. In contrast, Colorado fell to 2-3 and have three tough games ahead against TCU, Iowa State and Utah.

“Sometimes when it seems like you had more talent but you didn’t quite win the game, it makes it feel somewhat awkward,” Colorado head coach Deion Sanders said after the loss to BYU. “We had opportunities, a tremendous amount of opportunities, but nevertheless, we didn’t cash in on it. Sometimes it felt like the moment was just too big for some of our athletes and they’ve got to do something about that.”