The running joke orchestrated by McAfee aimed to humorously challenge Ohio State coach Ryan Day.
Highlights
- The Lou Holtz impersonator, Ty Schmit, created a humorous and confusing moment on Pat McAfee’s show, leading fans to question, “What happened to Lou Holtz’ face?” due to the unsettling rubber mask.
- The real Lou Holtz has faced health challenges, including a significant leg injury from a car accident and a prostate cancer diagnosis in 2014, which he has openly discussed to raise awareness.
- Lou Holtz is a revered college football figure known for his successful coaching career and motivational speaking.
In a recent episode of “The Pat McAfee Show,” viewers were taken aback when a segment featuring Ohio State coach Ryan Day and Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman was interrupted by what appeared to be Lou Holtz.
However, upon closer inspection, it became evident that this was not the legendary coach himself but an impersonator donning a rubber mask.
There's somebody that has a question for you @ryandaytime 😂😂
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) January 20, 2025
BREAKING NEWS: It appears as if Coach Lou Holtz is in Atlanta for the National Championship #CollegeGameDay https://t.co/wbaoE0X79z pic.twitter.com/TapcMz1SMp
The mask’s conspicuous mouth hole led many fans to question, “What happened to Lou Holtz’s face?”
The peculiar appearance sparked confusion and concern among viewers, with some mistaking the impersonator for the real Holtz, suffering from a severe skin condition.
Co-Host Ty Schmit Was Behind The Mask
The segment was designed as a lighthearted prank, with the impersonator aiming to inject humor into the discussion.
Co-host Ty Schmit fully embraced his recurring role as “Fake Lou Holtz,” sporting the signature look and voice of the former Notre Dame coach while delivering a monologue that poked fun at both teams.
The long-running bit dates as far back as 2023.
Lou Holtz finally apologized to Ryan Day! 🤣 pic.twitter.com/1BuIR5xnKw
— The Buckeye Nut (@TheBuckeyeNut) October 20, 2023
The impersonator in the most recent interview quipped,
Coach Day, I’m going to start with you. OK? Do we need to take this to a back alley or something?
MSN
Though initially taken aback, Ryan Day managed to keep his composure, albeit with a not-so-comfortable smile. He responded,
You guys realize that, right? You guys are out of your minds. Where do you come up with this stuff?
MSN
On the other hand, Marcus Freeman couldn’t contain his laughter, enjoying the light-hearted moment.
The intention was to entertain, but the execution, particularly the unsettling mask, left many viewers puzzled.
Lou Holtz Is A Celebrated Figure In Collegiate Football
Lou Holtz, the real one, is a revered figure in the world of college football.
Born on January 6, 1937, Holtz is now 88-year-old.
He is best known for his tenure as the head coach at the University of Notre Dame, where he led the Fighting Irish to a national championship in 1988.
Holtz’s coaching career spanned several decades, including stints at William & Mary, NC State, Arkansas, Minnesota, and South Carolina.
For decades, I coached college football and saw the game evolve.
— Lou Holtz (@CoachLouHoltz88) December 11, 2024
College football isn't about individual glory; it's not about chest-pounding or endless transfers.
It's about teamwork and character.
Let's get back to what made the game great—playing for the love of it and… pic.twitter.com/cqSJHXH1mP
Holtz’s impact on college football is undeniable.
He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008 and has left a lasting legacy through his motivational speaking and numerous books on leadership and success.
Despite retiring from coaching in 2004, Holtz remained active in the sports world as a television analyst for CBS Sports and ESPN.
Holtz Has Faced Some Health Challenges Recently
Lou Holtz has faced several health challenges, including a car accident that resulted in a significant leg injury.
Discussing the incident, Holtz revealed in early January 2025,
I was in a car accident, hurt my leg quite extensively.
Athlon Sports
Despite this setback, he has been on the mend.
Additionally, Holtz has been candid about his 2014 prostate cancer diagnosis and survival, sharing his early detection story publicly to raise awareness.
In his personal life, Holtz remains active, recently celebrating his 88th birthday on January 6, surrounded by family and friends.
Memorable fun night celebrating @CoachLouHoltz88 88th birthday. @HoltzHeroes out in full force. So many Irish legends there. Thanks for letting me be a part of it! We missed you @mark_may pic.twitter.com/kdCk6uBMYk
— Rece Davis (@ReceDavis) January 12, 2025
Additional Information
- Lou Holtz was married to his wife, Beth Barcus, from 1961 until her passing in 2020.
- The couple had four children together, and Holtz is now a proud grandfather.
- In 2008, Lou Holtz was invited back to the University of Notre Dame campus, where a statue of the former coach was unveiled in his honor.
