College football fans are in for a dramatic start to the season, and not just because of the games.
Dave Portnoy, the outspoken Michigan fan and Barstool Sports founder, is at the center of a brewing controversy that has everyone talking.
Fox Sports, which hired Portnoy as an analyst for Big Noon Kickoff, seems to be playing right into it, according to radio host Dan Le Batard.
The showdown is set for Ohio Stadium in Columbus, where the No. 1 Texas Longhorns will take on the No. 3 Ohio State Buckeyes.
But despite being a key part of Fox’s broadcast, Portnoy reportedly isn’t allowed inside the stadium.
Ohio State’s athletic director, Ross Bjork, and the Big Ten Conference have blamed Fox for the issue, while Portnoy has pointed fingers back at Ohio State.
Fox’s Bold Move Against ESPN
Fox’s decision to bring Portnoy on board appears to be a strategic move to challenge ESPN’s long-standing Saturday college football show, College GameDay, and rival the presence of Pat McAfee.
Portnoy is known for creating attention and controversy, and Fox seems to be leaning into that energy to attract viewers, especially younger audiences.
Dan Le Batard, who has sparred with Portnoy publicly for years, explained on his radio show that the network’s strategy seems clear: “Fox and Big Noon are getting exactly what they want out of Dave Portnoy.
Reports that he has been ‘banned’ only add to the noise and excitement.”
Controversy as a Ratings Tool
Le Batard noted that Portnoy and Barstool are experts at generating buzz.
“I believe they will attract attention, particularly from young people, which is exactly what Fox needs to rival the departure of Lee Corso from ESPN,” he said.
He even remarked that personalities like Portnoy are unprecedented in the history of college football shows, highlighting how Fox is trying something radically different to compete in the sports broadcasting space.
The Big Saturday Question
The biggest question now is how Portnoy will participate in the Saturday broadcast if he isn’t allowed inside Ohio Stadium.
While the details remain unclear, one thing is certain: his presence and commentary will be felt, creating an extra layer of drama for viewers.
On the other side, this weekend also marks Lee Corso’s final appearance on College GameDay.
The 90-year-old has been a staple on the show since it began in 1987, making this a historic head-to-head moment for television audiences.
