Dave Portnoy continues to navigate drama with the Big Ten Conference. The Barstool Sports founder claims he has been sidelined from appearing on a Fox Sports show next weekend, likely originating from a Big Ten campus. Instead, he will be present in Starkville, Mississippi, as part of “The Barstool College Football Show.”
Speculations on Big Ten Intervention
During a recent episode of the “Unnamed Podcast,” Portnoy speculated on the situation, suggesting that the Big Ten might have influenced Fox’s decision to limit his appearance. He remarked, “It wouldn’t shock me… let’s cool tensions a little bit.” Portnoy emphasized that he is unaware of any official requests made by the Big Ten to keep him away.
Despite the uncertainty, Portnoy maintains he enjoys a good relationship with Fox Sports. He stated, “We have a great relationship with Fox, and I am not trying to make their lives more difficult.” He is set to participate in live coverage this Saturday from Columbus, Ohio, for Ohio State’s matchup against Penn State.
Upcoming Appearances and Speculations
Following the game in Columbus, Portnoy and his team will head to Starkville for an SEC showdown between Mississippi State and Georgia. When questioned about the reason for his absence from the potential Big Ten show, he remarked, “I don’t know if it was in the contract or not.”
- Upcoming Game Locations:
- Columbus, Ohio: Ohio State vs. Penn State
- Starkville, Mississippi: Mississippi State vs. Georgia
- Potential Big Ten Matchups Next Week:
- Indiana vs. Penn State
- Iowa vs. Oregon
- Ohio State vs. Purdue
Portnoy’s Relationship with Fox Sports
Portnoy reiterated that he has no grievances with Fox, criticizing a faction within the Big Ten that may hold biases against Barstool. “There’s a group that maybe hasn’t cared for Barstool throughout this relationship,” he noted. He views his relationship with Fox as constructive and beneficial.
This isn’t the first instance of tension surrounding Portnoy’s appearances. Previously, there were rumors about his exclusion from Ohio State’s season opener against Texas. These speculations suggested that the university had a role in limiting his presence.
Critique of the Big Ten’s Stance
The ongoing situation has drawn comparisons to Portnoy’s long-standing issues with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. He implied that the Big Ten might be taking itself too seriously and questioned their approach to media personalities like himself. Portnoy concluded, “I think they would probably echo a lot of the things we say… But I have no complaints with Fox. None, zero.”
As the drama unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Big Ten will respond to Portnoy’s claims and whether his future appearances will continue to be impacted.
