ESPN Criticizes Oklahoma Kicker’s Short Shorts: ‘That Deserves a Penalty’

In a recent college football game, the spotlight briefly shifted from the action on the field to Oklahoma Sooners kicker Tate Sandell’s choice of attire. During a matchup against the Tennessee Volunteers, ESPN commentators Chris Fowler and Kirk Herbstreit humorously criticized Sandell’s short shorts. This occurred as he prepared for a crucial 51-yard field goal attempt in the second quarter.
Commentators Weigh In on Kicker’s Attire
Fowler noted that such clothing may no longer be deemed inappropriate in college football, to which Herbstreit responded, “It is for me.” He suggested that wearing such shorts during a game might even warrant a penalty, commenting, “What the hell is it? Wearing shorts out there?” Despite the playful banter, Sandell successfully made the field goal, bringing Oklahoma ahead with a score of 13-10.
Kicker’s Performance Highlights
Tate Sandell’s performance was exemplary throughout the evening. He completed all of his field goal attempts, achieving a perfect 4-for-4 record. His kicks included a notable 55-yarder and three successful extra-point attempts. Overall, Sandell contributed a total of 80 points to the Oklahoma team this season, maintaining an impressive 94.7% success rate on field goals.
Game Overview
The Oklahoma Sooners faced the Tennessee Volunteers on November 1, 2025. The game ended with a score of 33-27 in favor of Oklahoma, improving their record to 7-2. The Tennessee Volunteers fell to 6-3 as a result of this loss.
Key Player Statistics
| Player | Passing Yards | Touchdowns | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| John Mateer (Oklahoma) | 159 | 1 | 1 |
| Joey Aguilar (Tennessee) | 393 | 3 | 2 |
As Oklahoma continues its campaign, fans and analysts will likely keep an eye on both the team’s performance and Sandell’s distinctive style on the field. The intersection of fashion and sports continues to create engaging narratives in college football.




