Oklahoma spirit squad members reportedly instructed to not use Horns Down symbol

The rivalry between Oklahoma and Texas is one of the best in college football, and there is no love lost between supporters of the two programs. One way Sooners fans showcase that is by using the controversial “Horns Down” symbol, but the school is taking steps to discourage that this year.

Members of Oklahoma’s spirit squad, which encompasses the cheerleading team and mascots program, have been told not to flash the Horns Down sign at any athletic events or on their social media accounts, several current and former students told George Stoia of The OU Daily. The students said they have been told on several occasions — including at a meeting with OU Spirit Coordinator Phil O’Neill last year — that they are not permitted to use the symbol. Spirit squad members who have used Horns Down on social media have been told to remove the posts.

Oklahoma athletic director Joe Castiglione said the policy is not a new one, but sources told The Daily that students were not warned against using Horns Down prior to the 2017-2018 season. A West Virginia player was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct for flashing the symbol last season, and the Big 12 has since said that players could face similar consequences going forward depending on the circumstances.

We know one prominent former Oklahoma star who thinks the rules against Horns Down are absurd, but apparently the school agrees with them.