Dave Portnoy's Barstool show highlights UConn football before UMass game
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 24, 2026, 2:19 AM
Last updated Oct 24, 2026

Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, held a College Football Show at Rentschler Field on October 23, 2026, before the UConn-UMass football game. The event attracted hundreds of UConn fans, creating a lively atmosphere and bringing attention to UConn football, often overshadowed by its basketball program. Portnoy engaged with fans, predicting a positive future for UConn football, despite the ongoing rivalry with UMass that was tied at 38 wins each prior to the game. Star quarterback William 'Pop' Watson III was confirmed to return for UMass after recovering from an ankle injury, adding anticipation to the matchup.
- •Barstool College Football Show drew hundreds of fans to Rentschler Field.
- •Portnoy praised UConn football, calling it a potential 'sleeping giant'.
- •UMass quarterback William Watson III returned after missing games due to injury.
- •The UConn-UMass rivalry is historically tied at 38 wins each.
- •The event featured game predictions and fan interactions.
- 2:19 AMYahoo Sports — Barstool's Dave Portnoy gives UConn football a moment in the spotlight before UMass game
"UConn fans said the Barstool show brought a burst of attention to a program used to playing second fiddle to basketball.
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