Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy Just Insulted the Detroit Lions — Fans Are FURIOUS
Barstool Sports founder has ignited controversy after labeling the as one of his “top five loser franchises of all time.”
Portnoy grouped Detroit with the , , , and , drawing sharp reactions from Lions supporters across social media.
Lions’ Struggles Fuel Portnoy’s “Loser Franchise” Claim
Historically, Portnoy’s comment is rooted in facts that have long haunted Detroit’s reputation. The Lions have never appeared in a Super Bowl, and their last NFL championship dates back to 1957—nearly 70 years ago.
Since the start of the Super Bowl era, the franchise has endured frequent playoff disappointments and endured the infamous 0-16 season in 2008, giving critics plenty of ammunition over the decades.
Fans Push Back on Portnoy’s Assessment
Despite Detroit’s troubled past, many Lions fans felt Portnoy’s remark ignored the team’s recent transformation.
One fan summed up the frustration on social media:
“Honestly I know my Lions have been bad for years, but it’s like we’re allowed to say that as fans… hearing it from this clown feels like when someone talks about a family member.”
Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell Change the Narrative
Under general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell, the Lions have rebuilt their culture and identity. Detroit has now posted four straight winning seasons for the first time since 1969–72—hardly the resume of a “loser franchise.”
The Lions have recorded 27 total wins from 2023–24 and captured two straight NFC North division titles, shifting expectations dramatically in Detroit.
From Draft Position to Super Bowl Expectations
The conversation around the Lions has evolved. Instead of being associated with draft position and rebuilds, Detroit is now being mentioned in the same breath as Lombardi Trophy aspirations.
Holmes has assembled a young, physical core, while Campbell has instilled belief and toughness throughout the roster. Around the league, the Lions’ culture is increasingly respected.
Until a Super Bowl Win, Critics Will Remain
Still, until Detroit reaches—and wins—a Super Bowl, critics like Portnoy will continue to point to the franchise’s long history of losing.
That reality makes the upcoming offseason the most pivotal of Holmes’ tenure as general manager. A breakthrough on the NFL’s biggest stage would instantly erase labels like “loser franchise.”
Until then, the outside noise will persist—but for the first time in decades, the Lions are fighting from a position of relevance and expectation, not hopelessness.
