Texas Tech appeals ruling on Leach lawsuit

LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) - Texas Tech is appealing a judge's decision to allow former football coach Mike Leach to sue for breach of contract.

Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott's office filed a notice of appeal for the school Wednesday.

District Judge William Sowder last month struck down Texas Tech's claim of sovereign immunity on Leach's breach of contract claim.

The school fired Leach on Dec. 30, two days after suspending him amid allegations he mistreated a player with a concussion. Leach denies mistreating receiver Adam James and suspects an $800,000 bonus he was to have received Dec. 31 was the reason he was fired.

James is the son of former NFL player and ESPN analyst Craig James.