League: NCAAF Sport: College Sports Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Fans criticize Dave Portnoy for comments regarding Michigan football schedule

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 8:02 AM

Last updated Sep 8, 2026

Fans criticize Dave Portnoy for comments regarding Michigan football schedule

Summary

Barstool Sports personality Dave Portnoy faced backlash from fans on X after describing the Michigan football team’s decision to play Western Michigan as a gutsy move. Portnoy praised the program for scheduling the matchup, claiming the Western Michigan squad’s previous success made it a challenging fixture. Fans countered that the game was set in April 2023, long before the Broncos’ 10-win season last year. Critics labeled the comments as engagement bait, noting that major college football schedules are typically finalized years in advance. Western Michigan defeated Michigan 13-12 in the contest, overcoming a narrow deficit with a touchdown in the final seconds of play. The result served as a difficult performance for the team under coach Kyle Whittingham.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Dave Portnoy praised Michigan for scheduling an in-state rival he deemed difficult.
•Social media users pointed out the game was scheduled in April 2023.
•Western Michigan defeated Michigan 13-12 with a late touchdown.
•Fans on X accused Portnoy of intentionally generating controversy for engagement.

Latest Updates

8:02 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Engagement baiter…’ Fans blast Dave Portnoy for lying about Michigan’s game against WMU

What they're saying

"
Dave Portnoy suggested that the Michigan Wolverines made a brave choice to play a Western Michigan team that won 10 games last season. However, many fans on X were quick to point out that the Wolverines had planned their home game against the Broncos years before their 10-4 season last year.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

NCAAF College Sports