Fresno, CA — The NCAA has issued a public censure and punishment to Fresno State Bulldogs Head Football Coach Matt Entz for recent postgame remarks that violated the organization’s sportsmanship regulations. The disciplinary action, announced Friday morning, derives from Entz’s comments criticizing game officials and doubting the integrity of several officiating decisions made during Fresno State’s closely fought loss last weekend.
The NCAA issued a formal statement citing Entz for breaking NCAA Bylaw 10.01, which concerns “ethical conduct” and bars public criticism of game officials. The censure comes with an unknown cost — estimated to be in the low five-figure range — that the university athletic department must pay.
“The NCAA expects all coaches to uphold the principles of sportsmanship, especially in the public arena,” according to the statement. “Coach Entz’s postgame comments crossed a clear line, undermining confidence in game officials and failing to reflect the standards expected at the NCAA Division I level.”
The NCAA issued a formal statement citing Entz for breaking NCAA Bylaw 10.01, which concerns “ethical conduct” and bars public criticism of game officials. The censure comes with an unknown cost — estimated to be in the low five-figure range — that the university athletic department must pay.
“The NCAA expects all coaches to uphold the principles of sportsmanship, especially in the public arena,” according to the statement. “Coach Entz’s postgame comments crossed a clear line, undermining confidence in game officials and failing to reflect the standards expected at the NCAA Division I level.”
The dispute erupted after Fresno State’s tight loss to a conference foe, when several questionable rulings, including a late-game pass interference flag and a missed targeting penalty, enraged players, coaches, and fans. In his postgame press conference, Entz did not mince words.
“Our players deserved better tonight,” he told me. “What we saw out there wasn’t just missed calls; it seemed like judgments that changed the outcome. If this is the norm, then we have a bigger problem than just one game.
While Entz’s statements were mirrored by a dissatisfied Bulldog audience on social media, the NCAA saw them as a direct threat to the officiating crew’s integrity and the game’s overall governance.
Fresno State Athletics Director Terry Tumey replied to the NCAA’s punishment with a cautious message of support for the team and its head coach.
“We accept the NCAA’s decision, but we also support Coach Entz and the enthusiasm he gives to this program. His statements demonstrated his allegiance to his players and commitment to fairness, even if the way in which he delivered them may have been more consistent with established norms. We will work with Coach Entz and the NCAA to assure full compliance going forward.”
Entz has published a follow-up statement taking responsibility:
“In the heat of the moment, I allowed my emotions to take control. I adore this team and will always battle for them, but I also understand the necessity of keeping the standards of respect and professionalism. I accept the NCAA’s decision and will view it as a learning experience.”
This is Entz’s first disciplinary action since joining Fresno State, where he has swiftly received plaudits for fostering a disciplined, competitive team environment. While the incident may be a blot on an otherwise successful tenure, it also demonstrates Entz’s enthusiasm and intensity for Bulldog football.
The NCAA closed their statement by advising all coaches and athletic personnel to “channel their competitive energy in a manner that upholds the integrity of college athletics.”