The world of college football was rocked earlier this year by a scandal involving Brendan Sorsby the former quarterback for texas tech. In a new four-part documentary series titled “The Program,” Sorsby opens up about his gambling addiction and the consequences that followed.
The documentary, which premiered on Paramount+ on September 4, 2026, provides an intimate look at the dramatic offseason that followed Texas Tech’s Big 12 championship and College Football Playoff berth. Sorsby’s story is a central theme throughout the series, offering a raw and unfiltered perspective on the events that unfolded.
Sorsby’s Struggle with Gambling
In the documentary, Sorsby candidly discusses his battle with gambling, which began during his time at Indiana and Cincinnati before transferring to Texas Tech. He admits to betting on sports, including his own team, and describes the compulsive nature of his gambling habits.
“I couldn’t watch sporting activities without wanting to have something at stake, wanting to have some skin on the game,” Sorsby confesses in the documentary. He reveals that even after transferring to Texas Tech and earning a substantial one-year deal worth over $4 million, he continued to gamble, driven by a desire for a dopamine hit.
The former quarterback entered a 30-day rehab facility in April to address his addiction and admitted to wagering at least $90,000 on more than 9,000 bets throughout his college career. Despite briefly regaining his eligibility through a Texas state court ruling, Sorsby ultimately dropped his lawsuit against the NCAA and left the Texas Tech program amid legal uncertainty.
The Impact on Texas Tech
The scandal generated significant tension between Texas Tech and the rest of college football. The documentary captures the program’s defiant stance, with head coach Joey McGuire rallying his team by embracing the underdog mentality.
“We are the most hated team in the country. I love it. We are now the hunted,” McGuire tells his players in a team meeting featured in the documentary. The series also includes footage of Sorsby’s return to the Texas Tech facility after winning the initial lawsuit ruling, where he is welcomed back by teammates and coaches.
The documentary’s director, Micah Brown notes that the gambling scandal added an unexpected layer of drama to the series. “Definitely throws a wrench into your plans,” Brown says, highlighting how the scandal pivoted the documentary’s focus.
The Aftermath and Future Prospects
Sorsby’s gambling saga has left a lasting impact on both the former quarterback and the Texas Tech program. Despite the controversy, Sorsby is determined to move forward and is currently training for the 2027 NFL Draft.
The documentary also explores the broader implications of the scandal, including the legal battles and the public backlash that followed. It provides a comprehensive look at the events that unfolded, from Sorsby’s initial admission to his eventual departure from the Texas Tech program.
As the 2026 season approaches, the tension surrounding the scandal is still fresh for many involved, particularly within the Big 12. The documentary serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that can arise in the world of college football.
