Kirk Herbstreit, the voice behind the thrilling NFL and college football commentaries, is usually the center of attention. But recently, it’s not just his insights that have fans cheering—it’s his furry friend, Ben Herbstreit. This ten-year-old Golden Retriever has stolen the spotlight, becoming a viral sensation on social media. Ben’s rise to fame is quite a story. He’s not your average pup, attending numerous games and even boasting Rose Bowl credentials.
Yes, this lovable Golden Retriever held the esteemed title of “Chief Happiness Officer” at the Rose Bowl, spreading joy wherever he wagged his tail. But why does Kirk Herbstreit bring a dog to the games in the first place?
Almost time for kick @rosebowlgame pic.twitter.com/6d6TY9FyOH
— Kirk Herbstreit (@KirkHerbstreit) January 1, 2024
A Heartwarming Support System
Kirk’s attachment to Ben goes beyond just having a pet on the sidelines. Ben serves as Kirk’s emotional support animal, a loyal companion providing comfort during challenging times. The story unfolds deeper as Kirk’s son, Zak, faces health struggles due to a heart condition. Zak, a former tight end at Ohio State, underwent hospitalization and ongoing treatment, sidelining him from the game he loves.
Throughout these tough times, Kirk’s been traveling extensively for his commentating duties, which can get pretty lonely, especially when someone you love is going through a rough patch. In an TikTok interview, Kirk shared, “I didn’t bring him out here for this, but I’ve really enjoyed watching people. They could just be watching, and all of a sudden they see him, and just a smile comes on their face because he’s just a happy dog.”
While Kirk has a pack of four dogs, Ben, the Golden Retriever, has emerged as his steadfast companion during NFL and college football games. Making his TV debut in 2021 during a “GameDay” preview, Ben became a regular travel companion for Kirk in 2023, making frequent appearances alongside his owner.
Ben’s presence became more prominent after Zak’s health ordeal, as he stepped in as Kirk’s emotional anchor during his extensive travels. From being in the spotlight during “Thursday Night Football,” where he even received affectionate pats from Aaron Rodgers, to gracing the booth during game analyses, Ben has become an integral part of Kirk’s game day routine.
A Pawsitive Impact on the Championship Game
As Kirk gears up to provide analysis for the Michigan versus Washington College Football Playoff championship game, Ben’s not far behind. Kirk recently shared an adorable picture of Ben all spruced up for the big game. The Golden Retriever, sporting a charming smile, seemed ready to accompany Kirk for the championship showdown.
Arriving in Houston, Texas, Ben was showered with love from fans and players alike. Expect to see more of Ben in the upcoming season, as his comforting presence continues to bring smiles amidst the excitement of football.
A Furry Touchdown in Tough Times
In a world where sports often dominate headlines, Ben’s emergence as an unsung hero brings a heartwarming touch to the game. Kirk Herbstreit’s furry friend isn’t just stealing the limelight; he’s also stealing hearts, proving that in the world of touchdowns and tackles, sometimes it’s the wag of a tail and a friendly bark that truly score big with fans.
Kirk Herbstreit and Ben, the inseparable pair, redefine what it means to bring support and joy to the game. While Kirk’s expertise fuels the commentary, Ben’s unwavering companionship serves as a reminder that, amidst the game’s intensity, a dog’s unconditional love can be a game-changer. As the championship game unfolds, keep an eye out for the not-so-secret weapon on Kirk’s team—his faithful, furry MVP, Ben.
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