Baylor Athletic Director Mack Rhoades on leave amid new allegations, steps down as College Football Playoff Chair

Baylor University athletic director Mack Rhoades has announced a leave of absence following new allegations, sources confirm to CBS Sports’ Brandon Marcello. Rhoades is also stepping down from his role as College Football Playoff (CFP) chair.

The university clarified that these allegations are unrelated to the football program and do not involve Title IX, NCAA rules, or student welfare, signaling that the matter is focused on administrative conduct rather than athletic compliance.The leave comes after reports surfaced regarding a sideline incident between Rhoades and Baylor tight end Michael Trigg during the Sept. 20 game against Arizona State. According to The Athletic, Rhoades confronted Trigg over his long-sleeved gold undershirt, which differed from the team uniform, grabbing him and using an expletive.

Baylor head coach Dave Aranda reportedly had “heated” words with Rhoades following the incident.

While the matter has been investigated and closed by Baylor, the university emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful and accountable environment for all athletes, staff, and coaches.

Mack Rhoades steps down as College Football Playoff Chair amid new allegations at Baylor

Mack Rhoades has served as Baylor’s athletic director since 2016, after two years at Missouri and prior stints at Akron (2006–2009) and Houston (2009–2015).

In addition to his Baylor duties, Rhoades was appointed chairman of the College Football Playoff selection committee in March, taking over from Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel. He also played a key role in the CFP’s first year of its expanded 12-team format, serving on the 13-person selection committee last season.

Rhoades is widely recognized for his leadership in college athletics and his efforts to enhance Baylor’s national sports profile.

The College Football Playoff will release its final rankings on Dec. 7, making Rhoades’ temporary departure a notable development in college football circles. Baylor’s statement reaffirmed Rhoades’ value to the athletics department and highlighted his acknowledgment of the incident, emphasizing that his actions did not align with the university’s Christian values. While the investigation is closed, Rhoades’ leave underscores Baylor’s focus on accountability and leadership standards within its athletic programs.

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