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‘That’s Embarrassing,’ ‘This Is Pathetic’ — CFB Fans Mock Dave Portnoy for Being Unaware of Alabama’s Historic Rivalry With Tennessee

Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy faced sharp backlash from college football fans after admitting he was unfamiliar with the deep history of Alabama’s long-standing rivalry with Tennessee. During a recent episode of the *Barstool College Football Show*, Portnoy questioned whether Tennessee could be considered Alabama’s top rival, even though the two programs have clashed annually since their first meeting in 1901.

The rivalry, known as the *Third Saturday in October* fixture, is one of college football’s most storied, featuring iconic moments like Alabama’s victory cigars tradition—sparked by a 1961 win—and prolonged dominance swings, including Alabama’s 15-game winning streak from 2007 to 2021 under Nick Saban and Tennessee’s seven straight victories from 1995 to 2001. Fans criticized Portnoy’s lack of awareness, especially given his recent departure from Fox Sports’ *Big Noon Kickoff*, with many suggesting his exit was justified by such oversights.

Social media reactions ranged from disbelief to outright mockery, with comments like *'That’s embarrassing'* and *'You cover sports & don’t know sports. Pathetic'* highlighting the disconnect between his public persona and the sport’s foundational knowledge.

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