MOSCOW, Idaho – Vandal fans have come to the defense of Head Coach Thomas Ford, who was fined by the conference for his comments about officiating in last Saturday’s game.
The catch? The conference admitted officials made a mistake on the call.
Big Sky Conference officials put out a statement this week, saying the conference reviewed a call made near the end of the game against Sacramento State.
The Sac State receiver was out of bounds when he made the catch in the red zone. Officials ruled it a catch and said replay confirmed their call.
The Hornets scored the go-ahead touchdown on the next play and won the game.
Coach Ford was critical of the call after the game.
Monday, the conference said “incorrect judgment” was applied on the play and even suspended several officials.
Then, the conference announced it was fining Coach Ford $2,500 for violating the sportsmanship policy.
Vandal fans sprang into action.
The Tubs at the Club podcast started a GoFundMe, aiming to raise $2,500 to cover the fine.
As of Wednesday afternoon, people have donated $2,760.
Coach Ford thanked fans on Twitter/X, saying, “Your response has been overwhelming and couldn’t be more blessed to be your Head Football Coach.”
Vandal Athletics confirmed to 4 News Now, money to pay the fine has to come from Coach Ford, not the university.
The Vandals close out the season Saturday at home against Idaho State.
*If you are considering a contribution to a GoFundMe account, please proceed at your own risk. KXLY.COM cannot assure that money deposited to an account will benefit the persons you desire to benefit.
COPYRIGHT 2025 BY KXLY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.
