Much has been discussed regarding ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit and his connection with Ohio State Buckeyes fans, including recent remarks from Herbstreit himself. He criticized a segment of the fanbase, labeling them as the “lunatic fringe,” while taking subtle digs at the Buckeyes supporters over how Tennessee fans took over The Horseshoe during their College Football Playoff match. The icing on the cake was the news that one of his sons recently chose to play for the rival Michigan.
Nonetheless, the former OSU quarterback emphasizes that at the core, he resembles any other Ohio State fan wishing for their victory. “At the end of the day, I’m no different than anybody sitting on their couch, I just prepare and talk about it,” Herbstreit stated at the national championship game media day. “I’m an Ohio State junkie. When they do well and I’m able to enjoy it, there’s nobody more thrilled than me. So yeah, I’ll be locked in, and if that scarlet gray confetti comes down, I’m gonna be racing to the field to hug my son and celebrate if they’re fortunate enough to win.”
This admission might seem unusual for a broadcaster just before calling the national championship game between the Buckeyes and Notre Dame, especially given the recent “conflict of interest” discussions surrounding Fox’s Tom Brady. However, college football operates uniquely, and Herbstreit is a notable circumstance in that context.
Bringing personal school loyalties into one’s work as a college football analyst is both accepted and often welcomed. As a former player, Herbstreit has long been tied to Ohio State and is known for defending the team on College GameDay, particularly against comments from Michigan alumnus Desmond Howard. Additionally, he has been part of an ongoing discussion about his stance, not just on Ohio State fans but regarding college football as a whole. This has created a cyclical drama where he initiates with bold statements, mocking the attention he receives while attempting to downplay his influence. Even his claim that his son manages his social media, which often lands him in hot water, only adds to the confusion.
The ESPN and Prime Video broadcaster appears unfazed by ongoing perceptions. Recently, he noted that while striving for neutrality when covering Buckeyes games, his fan side occasionally surfaces. One such instance was OSU defensive end Jack Sawyer’s impressive 83-yard scoop-and-score against Texas in the CFP semifinals.
The 4th-and-goal Texas disaster that results in a Jack Sawyer strip-sack and scoop-and-score for Ohio State.
The sideline cams show Steve Sarkisian’s soul being crushed in real time on the Pat McAfee broadcast. #CFP pic.twitter.com/VipP5Ska1s
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) January 11, 2025
“I try to do a pretty good job. I don’t go out of my way; I just call a game, but I’m a fan, I’m human. So when he returned that touchdown, part of me is like, the fan in me comes out,” Herbstreit remarked. “Then they do ‘Carmen Ohio’ (after the game), and that’s when I can finally let my guard down and enjoy the moment.” Furthermore, Herbstreit acknowledged his friendship with Ohio State head coach Ryan Day, which likely influences some of his comments about OSU fans. He believes that a national title win on Monday night could shift the narrative surrounding Day. “If that confetti comes down Monday night, he gets the last laugh,” he stated. “It’ll be fascinating to see his response, as winning a national championship elevates one to a different stratosphere. While he may not need it, that victory ensures nobody can criticize him, regardless of future game outcomes.”
