Home » Sports » NFL » Pittsburgh Steelers

“I’ve Been Staying Off”: Pat McAfee Distances Himself From ‘Mean’ Social Media Platform Amid Outrage Over Ruining ESPN’s College GameDay

Pat McAfee has never shied away from a loud opinion, but the criticism surrounding ESPN’s College GameDay has pushed him to log off. Fans have blamed him for hurting the Saturday show, and he now says he has largely stayed…

By Ishani Jayara · Essentially Sports

Published: Friday, 6 November 2026 at 2:46 AM

Key Things to Know

Pat McAfee revealed he is avoiding social media platform X due to ongoing criticism over his College GameDay role.
McAfee stated on his show that users have been calling him soft and a snowflake.
The controversy began after McAfee criticized a University of Utah video that showed students insulting him.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Pat McAfee announced he is staying off social media platform X following mounting backlash over his role on ESPN's College GameDay. Speaking on The Pat McAfee Show Live, the host described the platform as a harsh and mean space after facing widespread criticism, including being labeled a snowflake by online detractors and former sports media figures.

The scrutiny intensified after McAfee expressed discomfort regarding a deleted University of Utah video where students mocked him prior to a broadcast in Salt Lake City. The controversy further escalated when MSNBC host Joe Scarborough criticized McAfee on Morning Joe, claiming he was ruining the long-running college football show.

Read the full article on Essentially Sports