Ohio Stadium Bans Dave Portnoy Amid Fox-Barstool Partnership Tensions

Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, has been barred from entering Ohio Stadium on Saturday during Ohio State’s high-profile matchup against Texas. Despite his role on Fox’s "Big Noon Kickoff," Portnoy will not be present inside the stadium, according to sources. This news comes as Fox Sports and Barstool Sports recently announced a partnership that integrates Barstool personalities into shows like "Big Noon Kickoff."

The partnership between Fox and Barstool Sports initially indicated that "The Barstool College Football Show" would serve as a lead-in to "Big Noon Kickoff" for select games, including on-campus events. However, it will not be featured at Ohio State, a change that came alongside the decision to ban Portnoy from entering the stadium. This move is seen as a preemptive action in response to Portnoy’s vocal allegiance to Michigan, Ohio State's storied rival.

Ohio State's disdain for Portnoy's presence stems from his history of trolling the Buckeyes and their head coach, Ryan Day, particularly in the context of Michigan's recent victories over Ohio State. Portnoy has made his animosity for Ohio State known, often using social media as a platform for his criticisms and jibes. His playful tweet featuring a fake mustache as a potential disguise only accentuated his trademark provocateur style.

The exclusion of Portnoy from Ohio Stadium during "Big Noon Kickoff" was expected, as insiders have suggested that Fox anticipated issues between Portnoy and Ohio State. This decision has sparked debate on social media, with opinions divided on whether Ohio State's move was necessary or excessive. Some commentators have criticized Ohio State's decision as overly cautious, while others claim Portnoy thrives off controversy and conflict.

Adding fuel to the fire, former Michigan staffer Connor Stalions, known for his involvement in a sign-stealing scandal, offered his humorous support with a message asking if Portnoy needed tickets. This exchange underscored the polarizing effect Portnoy has within the college football community. Critics of the ban argue that Portnoy’s exclusion plays into his hands, giving him more ammunition for his ongoing rivalry with Ohio State.

The former Ohio State linebacker Bobby Carpenter noted on his Columbus radio show that many associated with the university are displeased with Fox's decision to involve Portnoy heavily in their football coverage. Despite this resistance, Portnoy is set to continue as part of "Big Noon Kickoff," although his involvement is limited outside the stadium confines.

Portnoy’s presence brings a unique blend of entertainment and controversy, amplified by his vast following and influence within sports media. As college football’s opening week progresses, the spectacle surrounding Portnoy’s ban has drawn additional attention to "Big Noon Kickoff," bolstering Barstool Sports’ engagement with Fox Sports audiences. This episode, while rooted in rivalry, highlights the dynamic interplay between sport, media, and personal personas in driving audience interest and interaction.

Beyond the ban, Portnoy remains a fixture in sports media, leveraging his extensive influence through Barstool's prominent platforms. The partnership with Fox reflects a strategic move to integrate Barstool’s edgy and irreverent voice within mainstream sports broadcasting. As the season unfolds, it will be instructive to see how this partnership navigates similar tensions and opportunities for engagement. The narrative involving Portnoy will likely be an enduring subplot, keeping fans and commentators engaged in the vibrant, sometimes contentious, atmosphere of college football.