Ohio State Clears the Air on Dave Portnoy “Ban” at The Horseshoe

Ohio State Denies Banning Dave Portnoy from The Horseshoe: FOX Broadcast Rules to Blame

Initial reports claimed Dave Portnoy, the outspoken Barstool Sports founder and known Michigan Wolverines fan, had been banned from Ohio Stadium for the season opener against Texas. According to Front Office Sports, Portnoy would not be permitted inside the stadium for FOX’s Big Noon Kickoff lack of main desk presence—causing a viral backlash.

Ross Bjork Sets the Record Straight

Ohio State Athletic Director Ross Bjork quickly intervened to clarify the situation during the week. Speaking with Yahoo Sports’ Ross Dellenger, Bjork emphasized that Ohio State did not issue any ban. The restriction stemmed solely from FOX’s production standard: individuals not seated at the main broadcast desk typically do not go onto the field, regardless of their familiarity with the rivalry or the fan base.

Bjork was clear:

“These are FOX decisions… Ohio State did not issue a ban on Dave Portnoy.”