Fans in Michigan are mostly unfazed by recent news.
The NCAA has slapped a hefty $20 million fine on the university due to a sign-stealing controversy that sent ripples through college football. Dave Portnoy, the cigar-loving CEO of Barstool Sports and Michigan alum, didn’t seem too amused by the decision. “So this organization, which has lost all of its lawsuits, only manages to fine Michigan $20 million?” he remarked during one of his signature videos. “To us, that’s just pocket change.”
According to estimates from ESPN, this fine is part of a larger penalty that goes beyond the initial $20 million.
The NCAA’s financial repercussions include a $50,000 fine, an additional 10% cut from the football budget, a scholarship reduction for 2025-26, and lost postseason football revenue for the next two years.
Looking at the coaching side of things, head coach Sherone Moore has been suspended for two games this season, with additional penalties hitting former coach Jim Harbaugh and Connor Stallions.
Notably, the NCAA stopped short of stripping Michigan of its 2023 national title.
Portnoy, who donates between $1-3 million each year to help recruit top quarterbacks, has made some big promises in light of these fines. He mentioned a deal with quarterback Bryce Underwood to underscore that the situation isn’t as dire as people might think.
“I mean, it’s just a minor blip—like a quarter of a player’s worth. We aren’t worried about the $20 million fine,” he stated. “And by the way, Stallions isn’t coaching for a long while.”
Portnoy, being one of the most vocal supporters of the Wolverines, is likely to keep pushing the narrative of Michigan’s dominance and gain even more exposure, especially with Barstool Sports’ partnership with Fox Sports allowing him a spot on the “Big Noon Kickoff” panel.
“We own the Big Ten, and we’re here for you,” he declared. “I’ll see you at the ‘Big Noon Kickoff’ in Columbus.”
