Mack Rhoades Resigns as CFP Chair, Takes Leave from Baylor
In a significant development ahead of the announcement of the College Football Playoff (CFP) field, Mack Rhoades, the selection committee chairman, is stepping down. He will also be taking a leave of absence from his position as Baylor University’s athletic director due to personal reasons.
Mack Rhoades’ Leave of Absence
Baylor University confirmed that Rhoades’ leave is effective from November 12. This decision follows allegations received by the university concerning Rhoades. However, it is important to note that these allegations are not related to Title IX violations, NCAA rule breaches, or student welfare issues.
The circumstances surrounding Rhoades’ leave come shortly after an investigation into an alleged sideline incident that took place in September. Despite this, Baylor’s associate athletic director for communications, Brett Ingram, emphasized that Rhoades’ leave is not connected to that specific incident.
Incident Details
The investigation focused on an encounter involving Rhoades, a Baylor player, Michael Trigg, and tight ends coach Jarrett Anderson. Reports indicate that Rhoades confronted Trigg about a gold, long-sleeved undershirt he wore prior to a home game against Arizona State on September 20. According to sources, Rhoades told Trigg to change his shirt just minutes before the game began, which reportedly left Trigg feeling unsettled.
Following the incident, Rhoades personally apologized to Trigg. The player’s father expressed concern over Rhoades’ actions but recognized Anderson’s support for Trigg. Both Anderson and head coach Dave Aranda reportedly defended Trigg during a heated discussion with Rhoades.
Baylor University’s Statement
In addressing the situation, Baylor released a statement confirming that an investigation took place regarding the incident involving Rhoades. The university stated that appropriate actions were taken and declared the matter resolved. Rhoades acknowledged his emotional response and expressed regret, reaffirming his commitment to Baylor’s mission and values.
Interim Leadership at Baylor
During Rhoades’ absence, deputy athletic director Jovan Overshown and executive senior associate athletic director Cody Hall will step in as interim athletic directors. Rhoades has served as Baylor’s athletic director since 2016, following a tumultuous period in the school’s history.
Under Rhoades’ leadership, Baylor’s athletic department has seen various successes, including hiring coaches who led the football team to significant achievements. Nevertheless, the football program has faced its share of scrutiny due to recent underperformance. Rhoades extended his contract for an additional ten years in 2022, a decision mirrored by Baylor’s president, Linda Livingstone, shortly after.
With Rhoades’ departure from the selection committee role, Arkansas Athletic Director Hunter Yurachek has been appointed as the new chair. The CFP committee has also welcomed Utah Athletic Director Mark Harlan as a member, expanding the committee’s size to 12.
