Pat McAfee Responds to Critics on Instagram

ESPN's popular college football pregame show, "College Gameday," is set to return next week in Dublin, Ireland, featuring the controversial figure Pat McAfee. Known for his polarizing presence, McAfee has garnered both fervent supporters and vocal critics since joining the show. His antics often spark debate among viewers, making him a divisive addition to the panel. Recently, McAfee faced backlash on social media following a joint Instagram post showcasing him shirtless on the "Gameday" set. In response to a comment expressing disdain for his presence, McAfee humorously acknowledged the negativity, stating, “I’ve been with me a long time... I’d probably hate you too.” His witty retorts continued as he addressed further criticism, including a remark about his appearance, suggesting that the detractors might reconsider their viewing habits. Despite the mixed reviews, "College Gameday" has seen impressive viewership numbers, with the 2023 season ranking as the second most-watched since 2011, averaging 2.0 million viewers. This figure closely trails the record set in 2022, indicating that the show remains a staple for college football fans, regardless of McAfee's polarizing role. After speculation about his future on the show, McAfee confirmed his return for the upcoming season. He had previously hinted at a potential departure but ultimately decided to continue his involvement with "College Gameday," alongside his separate deal for "The Pat McAfee Show" with ESPN.