The NCAA is finally tackling one of the biggest issues facing college football today: short-shorts.
The NCAA rules committee wants to start penalizing players for wearing short-shorts, per reports. Almost a decade ago, the NCAA passed rules to require pants to cover the knees but the rules are never enforced by game officials.
Do you want the NCAA to begin enforcing the rules? pic.twitter.com/NjnxCDxKX8
— FB_Helmet_Guy (@FB_Helmet_Guy) February 22, 2026
Looser enforcement of the NCAA uniform rule requiring football pants to cover the knee has led to more players wearing shorter shorts.
Oklahoma kicker Tate Sandell made headlines this season for his extremely short shorts to give his leg more flexibility.
“I’m not changing it.”#Sooners kicker Tate Sandell on shorts after criticism from broadcaster Kirk Herbstreit on national TV during Saturday’s game against Tennessee. pic.twitter.com/CO5Z81xS2e
— OU Daily Sports (@OUDailySports) November 2, 2025
Some fans agreed with the stricter enforcement, while others questioned why this is an issue at all.
Yes.
Now get off my lawn. https://t.co/fd4oaL7lwI
— Dallas | Jackrabbit Illustrated A-Team (@gojacksdallas) February 22, 2026
I am not a get off my lawn kinda of guy. But wear some damn football pants during the game. If you want to wear but cutters at practice then your prerogative but not during the games 💯💯💯 https://t.co/eC5UaX29Bc
— Charles “Buck” Arbuckle (@CharlesArbuckle) February 22, 2026
Of all the problems with NCAA football, short shorts are the least of them…. but hey, the ncaa is gonna ncaa. 🤦♀️🤦♀️
— Dorina G (@dorinaperry) February 23, 2026
Who likes shorts short? Not the NCAA, that’s for sure.
