Last September, Michigan alum and Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy said he’d be willing to drop $3M in NIL money to help the Wolverines land a QB. “I do not want to talk to other people… I talked to Sherrone. And I have his number; we talked. One guy to talk to,” explained Portnoy, making it clear he just wants to hand over the cash and move on. Now, considering Michigan’s history of solid but rarely elite QBs, that kind of money could literally change the game. Whether it actually happens remains to be seen, but it underscores just how far boosters like Portnoy are willing to go to shape their alma mater. Given that, as Michigan takes on Nebraska in Week 4, Portney is already firing a pointed question at Matt Rhule about a Nebraska alum.
Well, the Nebraska alum Will Compton has never shied away from giving back. Last year, he raised $66,000 for tornado relief, helping four different funds across the state. Now, after leaving Barstool Sports for a massive FanDuel deal, reportedly $30M over three years, all eyes are on his next moves. And why not? Compton called FanDuel’s offer “massive,” noting it was too good to pass up and 40% higher than what Barstool could match. Right now, while his contributions to his alma mater aren’t in the spotlight, fans can’t help but wonder how the linebacker-turned-podcaster might support Nebraska in the future.
Here on September 18, Dave Portnoy sat down with Nebraska HC Matt Rhule on his podcast, “House Rhules”, and the conversation covered a lot of ground. Then, out of nowhere, Portnoy asked about a familiar name. “I mean, my boy there, Willy,” said Portnoy. “He left us. He got a pretty fat deal from FanDuel. Has he opened the checkbook for you guys yet?” Rhule didn’t hold back. “He’s coming this week,” revealed the coach. “And I’m having a little card.” Honestly, the exchange hinted that Compton’s new FanDuel deal might finally benefit his alma mater in more ways than one. Yet, that wasn’t the end of it.
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Dave Portnoy didn’t hold back. “I know when the phone rings for me at Michigan,” he said. “I know what’s coming two sentences into the conversation. That’s right… almost like, do I want to pick up the call?” Then he dropped a hint about Compton. “But Willy’s got some money now. Put his money where his mouth is.” It sounds like Compton may be following Portnoy’s blueprint at Michigan, backing his alma mater in a big way. And why not?
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Nebraska played a pivotal role in Will Compton’s rise. As a standout linebacker and team captain, he honed his skills, earned All-Big Ten honors, and helped the Cornhuskers to a Big Ten Championship appearance and Capital One Bowl win. Beyond football, Nebraska shaped his leadership and personal brand, laying the foundation for his post-NFL success, from co-hosting Bussin’ With The Boys to securing a FanDuel deal. Given that, it’s natural for him to give back now, especially with his new betting deal in place.
Nebraska alum finds a fresh way to give back
Week 4 isn’t just another Big Ten game; it’s personal. Because Michigan and Nebraska alumni, podcast stars Will Compton and Taylor Lewan, have turned the matchup into the “Alumni Bowl.” Yes, on ESPN’s Get Up, the duo revealed a wager packed with laughs, pride, and a charitable twist, making this clash about more than just the scoreboard. And the bet is wild.
The loser shaves their head and face, mustache and all, though Compton drew the line at his eyebrows. To top it off, Lewan also added that the loser must concede Michigan’s 1997 national championship. But the real kicker is the charitable twist. “$50,000 goes to the NIL collective of the winner’s alma mater,” making the bet about more than just bragging rights. Just like that, Compton has a big incentive to win.
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Look, Nebraska (3-0) is undefeated and chasing its first victory over Michigan since 2013, while Huskers coach Matt Rhule hopes to break his 0-6 streak against ranked opponents. Now, if Nebraska takes it, Compton’s NIL gift could give the program a major boost, and fans are watching closely to see how the linebacker-turned-podcaster puts his money where his heart is.