Move over Colorado, Washington State is the Pac-12 school du jour in the rivalry between ESPN’s College GameDay and FS1’s Big Noon Kickoff.
The Buffaloes recently became the center of attention for both programs due to their rapid rise and the star power of Deion Sanders.
However, the focus has shifted towards the Cougs, but the reasons behind it are more subtle.
ESPN recently announced that GameDay would be heading to Seattle, WA for the upcoming showdown between the Oregon Ducks and Washington Huskies.
Although Pullman, where Washington State is located, is three hours away on the other side of the state, it is expected that many Washington State fans will make the trip.
Pat McAfee, during the announcement, made a point to highlight this fact.
College GameDay announcers they're going to Washington-Oregon next week. Pat McAfee is excited!
"I cannot wait to get to that state, that state really likes me." pic.twitter.com/6qhXYl8dNA
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) October 7, 2023
“I cannot wait to get to that state, that state really likes me,” McAfee said in reference to his ongoing war of words with Washington State.
He had previously called out the program after head coach Jake Dickert accused Lee Corso of showing bias against the Cougars and Oregon State.
McAfee’s impassioned rant did not reflect well on him or GameDay,
considering ESPN’s role in conference realignment and the impact it has had on Washington State.
On the other hand, Fox also paid attention to the unnecessary drama caused by McAfee and his colleagues.
During Big Noon Kickoff, Matt Leinart proudly displayed the Ol’ Crimson flag, which is famously seen at College GameDay each week.
Matt Leinart and Big Noon Kickoff send a message to Pat McAfee and College GameDay by waving Ol' Crimson and showing Washington State some love. pic.twitter.com/dJ5Amt8Urb
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) October 7, 2023
“We brought a Washington State flag,” said Leinert. “We’ll always have love for Ol’ Crimson on Big Noon Kickoff.”
Leinart’s action can be seen as a subtle message, suggesting that Big Noon Kickoff celebrates those who speak up about the inequalities of college football, while GameDay chastises them.
SEATTLE, WE ARE COMIN' TO YOUR CITY‼️
Can't wait to be in the PNW next week for Oregon vs. Washington 👏 pic.twitter.com/HzlUMe2RGc
— College GameDay (@CollegeGameDay) October 7, 2023
While it makes logistical sense for GameDay to head to Seattle next week, it also conveniently aligns with the drama surrounding McAfee’s comments towards Washington State.
It remains to be seen if ESPN will attempt to bring McAfee together with a prominent Washington State alum to reconcile their differences or if they will lean into the drama.
everyone else: talks about the game and rivalry hate
pat mcafee: how can i make this about me! https://t.co/XvSE03U8Ii
— Brian Floyd (@BrianMFloyd) October 7, 2023
Meanwhile, Big Noon Kickoff is heading to South Bend, Indiana, which is far from current Pac-12 country but will soon become Big Ten country.
Nevertheless, it is highly likely that Ol’ Crimson will make another appearance at the event.
