Pat McAfee Claps Back at Haters on “College Gameday” Set in Dublin

Pat McAfee, the popular sports media personality, has made quite a name for himself with his unique style and antics. However, not everyone has warmed up to him, especially on ESPN’s “College Gameday” where he has become a love-it-or-hate-it addition to the panel. Recently, McAfee found himself facing criticism on social media after posting a joint Instagram photo with the “College Gameday” and ESPN College Football accounts, featuring him shirtless on the GameDay set.

Surprisingly, McAfee didn’t shy away from responding to some of the trolls. One commenter expressed their anger towards him, to which McAfee replied, “I’ve been with me a long time… You’re definitely not the only one. Good news is, I’d probably hate you too.” This response shows McAfee’s ability to handle criticism with a sense of humor and self-awareness.

Another commenter called McAfee a redneck and suggested he keep his shirt on during the program. McAfee, not one to back down, sarcastically responded, “Damn shame… I don’t love that you’ve stopped watching. Maybe we’ll be able to get you back this year. If so, we’ll have the third straight season of highest ratings ever. WE NEED YA.” This witty comeback highlights McAfee’s ability to engage with his audience and playfully address their comments.

It’s worth noting that McAfee’s presence on “College Gameday” has contributed to the show’s success. The 2023 college football season was the second most-watched season of the show since 2011, with an average viewership of 2.0 million. Although it fell just short of the record set in 2022 with 2.1 million viewers, it still demonstrates the impact that McAfee has had on the program.

Despite the mixed reception, McAfee will be returning to “College Gameday” this year. There was some uncertainty surrounding his future on the show after he hinted at leaving in October of last year. However, he put those doubts to rest in July when he announced his return to one of ESPN’s most popular programs. McAfee’s decision to stay on the show signifies his commitment to entertaining and engaging with viewers.

It’s important to note that McAfee’s popularity extends beyond “College Gameday.” In 2023, he brought his own show, “The Pat McAfee Show,” to ESPN through a separate deal. This partnership allows ESPN to license his daily show, further solidifying McAfee’s standing as a prominent figure in sports media.

In conclusion, Pat McAfee’s presence on “College Gameday” has been a subject of controversy and polarization. However, McAfee has shown his ability to handle criticism with humor and engage with his audience. Despite the mixed reception, his impact on the show’s viewership is undeniable. McAfee’s decision to return to “College Gameday” and his separate deal with ESPN for his own show demonstrate his status as a rising star in sports media. Love him or hate him, Pat McAfee is here to stay, bringing his unique style and entertaining personality to the world of college football coverage.