Mack Rhoades, athletic director at Baylor University since 2016, has taken a leave of absence from his duties at the university and is stepping down as chair of the College Football Playoff Selection Committee (CFP). CBS Sports
Rhoades will also no longer serve as a committee member. The decision follows new allegations brought to Baylor’s attention that are not related to the football program, NCAA rules violations, or Title IX matters. CBS Sports
Earlier this season, a sideline incident between Rhoades and Baylor tight end Michael Trigg during a game at Arizona State University reportedly involved a dispute over Trigg’s undershirt. Rhoades allegedly grabbed Trigg and used an expletive while questioning the shirt’s color. CBS Sports
In a statement, Baylor said the matter was “thoroughly reviewed and investigated in accordance with university policies” and is now considered closed. The statement added:
“Mr. Rhoades has expressed regret over his emotions and recognizes his conduct … was not reflective of our Christian mission and values.” CBS Sports
Rhoades took over as CFP chair in March and appeared in the role during the most recent rankings show. CBS Sports He also succeeded Warde Manuel of University of Michigan. CBS Sports
Given Rhoades’s departure from the committee, the CFP selection committee will need to pick a new chair before the final rankings are revealed on December 7. CBS Sports
For Baylor, the university has emphasised that Rhoades remains a part of its athletics department leadership, even as he takes this leave. The institution reaffirmed its commitment to providing a “respectful and accountable environment” for its student-athletes, coaches and staff. CBS Sports
This development adds an unexpected complication for Rhoades’s already watched tenure at Baylor, where he succeeded his previous athletic-director roles at University of Houston, University of Akron and University of Missouri. CBS Sports
As the university and the CFP committee navigate these changes, attention will now turn toward who will assume the chair position and how Baylor handles internal oversight and leadership moving forward.
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