CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, is enjoying his time in Champaign, Illinois as both FOX Sports and Barstool Sports are preparing to broadcast their shows from outside Gies Memorial Stadium this Saturday.
“It’s a significant challenge for Illinois, especially after last week’s 60-point loss,” Portnoy mentioned to WCIA. “It can be tough for fans to be really enthusiastic following a game like that. This is a crucial game for Illinois. They have big aspirations for this season, but they’ll need to bounce back by defeating USC. We’ll see if this tests the student body’s ability to get up early and be ready for the game.”
FOX is hosting Big Noon Kickoff in Champaign ahead of Illinois football’s meeting with No. 21 USC.
Portnoy shared his take on the ranked matchup:
“How can anyone truly believe they’re legitimate after last weekend’s performance?” Portnoy questioned, alluding to Illinois’ 63-10 defeat at Indiana. “I do think Illinois is good. I believe they’ll win this game and recover. So, maybe I’m contradicting myself. You can’t be too confident after last week’s result, but I had faith in them before. I really like Altmyer, their quarterback, and I like Bret Bielema, so I anticipate a strong performance tomorrow.”
While in town, Portnoy made his way to different pizza shops in Champaign and Savoy on Friday.
He picked up Papa Del’s and Old Orchard, giving Papa Del’s 7.1 out of 10 rating.
He said he also stopped by the Illinois bookstore, gameday spirit, Papa Del’s, Monical’s, and Old Orchard Lanes and Links.
