From Firetrucks To Football: Dave Portnoy's Unique Cy-Hawk Tailgate In Ames

David

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Post on Sep 08, 2025

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From Firetrucks to Football: Dave Portnoy's Unique Cy-Hawk Tailgate in Ames Ignites Social Media

Ames, Iowa – The annual Cy-Hawk rivalry game between Iowa State and the University of Iowa is already a spectacle, but this year's pre-game festivities reached a whole new level thanks to the unexpected presence of controversial Barstool Sports founder, Dave Portnoy. Portnoy, known for his brash personality and love of all things sports, took his tailgate game to a fiery new level in Ames, generating a buzz that spread far beyond the Jack Trice Stadium.

Instead of the typical grills and folding chairs, Portnoy's tailgate featured a firetruck, complete with a DJ and what several attendees described as a "wild" atmosphere. The spectacle, documented extensively on Portnoy's social media channels, instantly became a trending topic, drawing both praise and criticism. The event blended Portnoy's signature brand of chaotic energy with the passionate, longstanding tradition of the Cy-Hawk rivalry.

<h3>A Tailgate Like No Other</h3>

Images and videos flooding Twitter and Instagram showed a scene overflowing with energy. Portnoy, clad in Iowa State gear (much to the chagrin of some Hawkeye fans), interacted with fans, played games, and generally fostered a high-energy environment. The firetruck, a particularly striking element, served as a centerpiece for the unique tailgate, adding a layer of unexpected spectacle to the already vibrant atmosphere. This wasn't just a gathering; it was a fully produced, albeit impromptu, event.

The choice of Ames, home to Iowa State, for such a large-scale tailgate is noteworthy. While Portnoy's allegiances have been known to shift with the wind (and the betting odds), his presence undeniably boosted the pre-game excitement for the Cyclones.

<h3>Controversy and Celebration</h3>

While many lauded the event as a fun and memorable addition to the Cy-Hawk festivities, others criticized Portnoy's presence. Some questioned the appropriateness of such a large, boisterous tailgate, while others voiced disapproval of his often controversial online persona. This duality is typical of Portnoy’s public image, consistently generating strong reactions, both positive and negative.

Nevertheless, the event’s sheer scale and unique nature undeniably made it a memorable part of the 2023 Cy-Hawk gameday experience. The combination of Portnoy’s unconventional approach and the already intense rivalry created a perfect storm of social media engagement. The sheer number of posts and tweets using hashtags like #CyHawk, #DavePortnoy, and #BarstoolSports testifies to the event's impact.

<h3>The Lasting Impact</h3>

Portnoy's unconventional tailgate in Ames has undeniably left its mark on the Cy-Hawk rivalry. It sparked conversations, generated countless social media posts, and ultimately added another layer to the already rich tapestry of the annual gameday experience. Whether you loved it or hated it, one thing is certain: Dave Portnoy’s firetruck tailgate will be a talked-about element of the 2023 Cy-Hawk game for years to come.

What are your thoughts on Dave Portnoy's unique tailgate? Share your opinion in the comments below!