Dave Portnoy Criticized Ryan Day After Texas Loss
Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy slammed Ohio State coach Ryan Day following a late-game loss to Texas.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Football
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Ohio State fell to Texas with a final score of 24-23 after a dramatic fourth quarter. Dave Portnoy publicly criticized Ryan Day for his management of the game after the Buckeyes surrendered a 23-3 lead.
Why it matters
The loss underscored recurring concerns regarding Ryan Day's ability to manage high-pressure situations. Portnoy, a prominent media figure, argued the team's late-game strategy directly contributed to the collapse.
Texas scored 21 unanswered points in the fourth quarter to secure a 24-23 victory. Ohio State held a 23-3 lead entering the final period before the defensive collapse.
The players
Dave Portnoy
He is the founder of Barstool Sports and a prominent internet personality with an estimated net worth of $250 million.
Ryan Day
He serves as the head football coach for the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Arch Manning
He is a standout quarterback for the Texas Longhorns football program.
Emmett Mosley V
He is a playmaker for the Texas Longhorns who recorded a key reception in the victory.
Hollywood Smothers
He is an athlete who scored a touchdown in the final minutes of the game against Texas.
The details
Despite leading 23-3 entering the fourth quarter, Ohio State failed to stop a late Texas rally that included a 19-yard connection between Arch Manning and Emmett Mosley V. Ryan Day admitted the team should have allowed Texas to score earlier to preserve timeouts, as Ohio State had none remaining with 28 seconds left after a touchdown by Hollywood Smothers.
Timeline
Previous season: Ohio State defeated Michigan 27-9.
September 18, 2026: Article publication date.
Season Trajectory
This loss follows the pressure established by Ohio State's four-game Michigan skid, where past failures increased scrutiny on the current coaching staff. The outcome forces a re-evaluation of the team's ability to maintain leads against elite opponents during the current season.
Ohio State enters its next matchup with zero margin for error regarding time management and defensive situational awareness. The collapse wiped out a significant lead, altering the team's standing as they navigate the remainder of the schedule.
The takeaway
Effective game management is often the deciding factor in close contests between high-level programs. Coaches must adapt their defensive philosophy in real time to account for remaining timeouts and game clock realities.
Further reading
For more on the current season, visit the Football section.
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