Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy has been gearing up for a big moment in his career—his first appearance on Fox Sports’ college football coverage.
But before he even steps in front of the cameras this weekend, there’s already drama surrounding his highly-anticipated debut.
Fox Sports Signs Portnoy for a Huge Opening Weekend
Portnoy was lined up to join Fox’s “Big Noon Kickoff” on Saturday for the blockbuster Week 1 matchup between Texas and Ohio State.
The show, one of the most watched in college football, was set to feature him as part of the coverage, giving the outspoken Barstool boss a national stage.
The Ban That Could Ruin Everything
There’s just one problem—Portnoy might not be allowed into the stadium at all.
Despite being on the Fox payroll, the 48-year-old sports media personality has reportedly been banned from entering Ohio State’s stadium, The Horseshoe.
The reason? He’s a proud Michigan alum, and Ohio State—Michigan’s fiercest rival—hasn’t exactly rolled out the welcome mat for him.
Barstool Already Blocked on Campus
The tension runs deeper than just Portnoy himself.
According to Front Office Sports, Barstool Sports as a whole has previously been barred from Ohio State’s campus.
That restriction adds another layer of awkwardness for Fox, which had planned to feature him at the stadium as part of its broadcast.
What This Means for His Appearance
Even with the ban in place, reports suggest Portnoy will still be part of “Big Noon Kickoff”, but with one major caveat—he won’t be on set for the final portion of the show inside the stadium.
Instead, he’ll have to contribute from elsewhere, keeping him physically separated from the main event.
Still Waiting for Ohio State’s Response
So far, Ohio State’s athletic department and football team haven’t commented on the situation, leaving plenty of speculation about how this will play out come game day.
