FOX Sports has announced a major broadcasting addition to its network.
The network revealed a TV deal with Barstool Sports and its founder, Dave Portnoy.
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On Thursday afternoon, Fox Sports announced an expansive deal with Barstool Sports.
Portnoy will be a regular on the network’s hit college football pregame show, Big Noon Kickoff.
Fox also revealed that Dan “Big Cat” Katz, who’s the co-host of the hit sports podcast, Pardon My Take, will occasionally appear on the program.
“We’re excited to welcome Dave Portnoy and Barstool Sports to the Fox Sports family,” Fox Sports CEO Eric Shanks said in a statement.
“Dave has built a one-of-a-kind brand that connects with a new generation of sports fans – authentic, bold, and original.
“Their unique voice and loyal fanbase makes them a natural fit for our evolving multiplatform content strategy.”
The outspoken personality Portnoy will join the star-filled cast of Urban Meyer, Matt Leinard, Brady Quinn, Mark Ingram, Chris “The Bear” Fallica, and host Rob Stone on Big Noon Kickoff.
The Barstool CEO also announced the move in a social media video.
“We are joining Big Noon Kickoff,” Portnoy said in the clip as he went on to brag about his favorite school, Michigan.
As the video suggests, Portnoy is expected to provide plenty of banter with his colleagues, including former Ohio State coach Urban Meyer, on the show.
Earlier this week, FS1 cancelled three daily shows: Breakfast Ball, The Facility, and Speak.
Portnoy revealed on Barstool’s The Unnamed Show that Barstool will have a daily program from 8 to 10:00 am ET on FS1.
“They want our audience. … It’s a wide-ranging relationship,” Portnoy said while adding that a studio will be made in Barstool’s Chicago office for the show.
The entertaining Portnoy’s deal with Fox Sports comes as the 48-year-old has a relationship with the network.
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He has appeared on Fox News and Fox Business Network programs in the past few years.
Fox Sports’ move is likely a response to Pat McAfee and his dominance at ESPN.
The former NFL punter and fiery personality is a star on ESPN’s college football pregame show College Gameday, FS1’s rival show.
McAfee started his sports media career at Barstool, too.
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