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Payton Thorne signs NIL deal with Michigan-based beer bar
By Nick Schultz
Published:
Just in time for a showdown with Michigan, Michigan State quarterback Payton Thorne signed an NIL deal.
Thorne is partnering with HopCat, a beer bar based in Michigan, the company announced Thursday.
HopCat announces NIL deal with Payton Thorne. pic.twitter.com/lppwn0zfzA
— Graham Couch (@Graham_Couch) October 28, 2021
“We aren’t just writing a check and hoping for a social media post,” HopCat brand manager Michele Ary said in a statement. “Payton is on the HopCat roster and has the ability to make a lasting impact, not only on the field but in our East Lansing community.”
HopCat is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, but has locations in nine locations listed on its website.
Thorne is having a solid year for Michigan State. He ranks 4th in the league with 242 passing yards per game and is a big reason why the No. 8-ranked Spartans are 7-0 this year. He’ll face quite a challenge this week against Michigan, though.
Kickoff for that game is Oct. 30 at noon ET on FOX.
Nick Schultz is a columnist and breaking news writer for Saturday Tradition. A 2020 graduate of Loyola Chicago, he covered the Ramblers' 2018 Final Four run from beginning to end and has worked at NBC Sports Chicago. Follow Nick on Twitter @NickSchultz_7.