Dan “Big Cat” Katz named finalist for Akron honorary offensive coordinator

The University of Akron has announced ten finalists for its honorary “offensive coordinator of the game” promotion. The initiative, conceived by athletic director Andrew Goodrich, allows a winner to call the plays for the team’s first drive during the 2026 home opener against Robert Morris on September 12.

Among the finalists is Dan “Big Cat” Katz, a prominent college football podcaster for Barstool Sports and co-host of the “Pardon My Take” podcast. To increase his chances in the random drawing, which is open to season ticket holders, Katz revealed on X that he purchased 18 season tickets. He noted that he intends to donate his unused tickets to the nonprofit organization “Tickets For Kids,” which aims to provide equitable access to inspiring experiences for vulnerable youth.

The winner of the contest will be announced on August 25.