ESPN and the University of Utah issued statements on Monday after Pat McAfee expressed frustration regarding his experience during the university's hosting of ESPN's College GameDay this weekend. The controversy arose following a social media video and McAfee's subsequent comments regarding his safety and comfort during the visit.
McAfee voiced several frustrations during the final segment of Saturday's show, which featured the hosts selecting a home game for broadcast ahead of the No. 10 Utes' matchup against No. 14 Houston. He cited a video shared on the university's social channels that featured students making jokes about his signature bit of taking his shirt off and using corny lines. McAfee also noted a discrepancy in a kicking contest prize, mentioning a student declined a $1 million offer because the previous weekend's prize at BYU was $3 million.
On Monday, McAfee stated he felt very uncomfortable throughout the show and questioned if the university was amplifying reasons for people to dislike him. In response, ESPN issued a statement via The Athletic noting they take security for their on-air team, crew, and fans seriously. The network stated they support McAfee and recognize his valid concerns regarding safety and security.
The University of Utah issued an apology to McAfee for the social media video, stating they missed the mark in their goal to create lighthearted engagement. University officials said they take full accountability for the decision and apologized for creating any perception that McAfee was unsafe or unwelcome on campus. The university noted that McAfee and the GameDay crew are always welcome on campus and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to showcase the university and community.
The University of Utah noted that ESPN College GameDay has visited the campus seven times and that they have historically enjoyed a positive relationship with the crew.
Whether McAfee will return to the university remains an open question.
