Dave Portnoy Faces Ohio State University Ban Ahead of Big Noon Kickoff

Dave Portnoy is set to host Fox's Big Noon Kickoff, but controversy has already erupted before he even steps onto the set. The Barstool Sports founder, known for his outspoken nature, will debut on August 30 when Ohio State takes on Texas in Columbus.

Reports surfaced on August 25 indicating that Ohio State barred Portnoy from entering Ohio Stadium for the highly anticipated broadcast. This decision raised eyebrows, especially considering Portnoy's allegiance to the University of Michigan, Ohio State's long-standing rival.

In an attempt to clarify the situation, Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork stated on August 26 that Portnoy would not be part of the main desk for Big Noon Kickoff, which is where all on-field talent originates. “These are Fox decisions,” Bjork remarked, distancing the university from the controversy.

Further elaborating, Ohio State issued a statement to Front Office Sports, explaining that Fox representatives had informed them that only the main desk talent would be allowed inside the stadium during the final hour of the show. “David Portnoy is not part of their ‘main desk’ crew,” the statement clarified, asserting that no one was banned from the stadium.

Portnoy, however, took to social media to express his frustration, claiming that Ohio State had effectively banned The Barstool College Football Show from Columbus. “Ohio State literally can’t even focus on Texas,” he said in a video. “We cannot have Dave on the set. We just can’t.” He added that he was prepared to let it go but felt compelled to speak out after learning of the ban a week and a half prior.

“You banned me,” Portnoy declared, accusing Bjork of making excuses and suggesting that Ohio State's fear of Michigan was influencing their decisions. “The only way you guys are ever gonna compete with us again is if you can look yourselves in the mirror and be honest with yourself.”