Ben
Kirk Herbstreit’s most famous dog is his Golden Retriever named Ben, who is a regular on his social media and is usually by his side at games. For the 2024 Rose Bowl, Ben made headlines for scoring his own press credentials with the official ESPN title, “Chief Happiness Officer.” Ben sadly passed away from cancer in November 2024, with Herbstreit posting a tear-jerking video tribute to “America’s Best Friend.”
Theo, Mitch, and Peter
Kirk Herbstreit has three more Golden Retrievers: Theo, Mitch, and Peter. He got them all from the same breeder as his oldest pup Ben. He got Theo in 2017, Mitch in 2020, and Peter in 2023. In the photo here, coach Ben is seen taking five in front of his three protégés. After the passing of Ben, the one-year-old rookie Peter took up his cohost position.
Kirk Herbstreit
Birthday
August 19, 1969 (55)
Links (Tags)
Kirk Herbstreit, an American sports commentator and analyst, is widely recognized for his insightful contributions to ESPN’s College GameDay, a show he has been an integral part of since 1996. His profound knowledge of college football, coupled with his engaging commentary style, has made him a household name among sports enthusiasts. Herbstreit’s career is marked by a significant highlight: his role in popularizing college football through his in-depth analyses and charismatic television presence.
Herbstreit’s journey in sports media is characterized by his extensive work as a commentator and analyst. Beyond College GameDay, he has been a key voice in ESPN’s coverage of college football, including serving as a color commentator for ABC’s Saturday Night Football. His ability to break down complex plays and strategies in an accessible manner has made him a favorite among viewers. Herbstreit’s transition from a successful college quarterback at Ohio State University to a prominent figure in sports broadcasting is a testament to his deep understanding of the game and his ability to communicate that knowledge effectively.
Collaboration has been a cornerstone of Herbstreit’s career. He has worked alongside notable figures in sports broadcasting such as Chris Fowler, Lee Corso, and Desmond Howard. These partnerships have been instrumental in creating compelling sports programming. His work with Fowler on Saturday Night Football has been particularly noteworthy, offering viewers a dynamic and insightful commentary duo. Herbstreit’s ability to blend seamlessly with various personalities in the booth has enhanced the viewing experience for college football fans nationwide.
Herbstreit’s expertise and contributions to sports broadcasting have been recognized through various awards and honors. He is a four-time recipient of the Sports Emmy Award for Outstanding Sports Personality – Studio Analyst, showcasing his excellence in sports commentary. His induction into the Ohio State University Athletics Hall of Fame not only honors his collegiate football career but also underscores the impact he has made as an ambassador for the sport.
