Kirk Herbstreit, a familiar name in the world of college football as an ESPN commentator, wears his alma mater pride on his sleeve—especially during big moments like the National Championship game. Recently, he had the distinct pleasure of calling the thrilling matchup between Ohio State and Notre Dame, where his beloved Buckeyes clinched a 34-23 victory. For many fans and followers, seeing Herbstreit get emotional in the broadcast booth was a poignant reminder of just how deep his ties to the game and university run.
In a moment that resonated with viewers nationwide, Herbstreit was visibly moved, shedding tears of joy as he celebrated Ohio State’s victory. “When I call these games I’m incredibly objective,” he said. Yet, anyone watching could sense the thrill of triumph he felt. “I love all of these Ohio State teams, but this team because of what they went through to get to this point, you’re just happy,” he explained, undeniably human in his emotions. His genuine passion for the game and the players he’s covered for years shines through even during his professional commentary.
The display of emotion didn’t go unnoticed on social media, sparking a lively discussion among fans. Some critics argued that announcers should remain neutral, while others couldn’t help but chuckle at the contradiction between Herbstreit’s claim of objectivity and the tear-filled celebration. One clever user on X humorously remarked, “Kirk Herbstreit: ‘I am very objective and try to be as fair as I can be’—comedy writers spend YEARS trying to write a line that funny.”
Yet, amidst the jests and critiques, many fans rushed to defend him. One supporter remarked, “I don’t really understand people dunking on Kirk Herbstreit for being in tears that his alma mater won the national championship. He covers the game objectively every time he has an Ohio State call (which is hard to do), and his son is on the team. He’s also human.” This sentiment captures the complexity of being both a commentator and a passionate alumnus.
Herbstreit’s love for Ohio State is not just a professional affinity; it’s deeply personal. He played as a quarterback for the Buckeyes from 1989 to 1993, primarily as a backup before taking the reins in his senior year. During that season, he completed 155 of 264 passes for a total of 1,904 yards and made his mark in history with a standout performance against Michigan, throwing 28 passes for 271 yards in a closely contested 13-13 tie. While he faced his fair share of challenges, including a Citrus Bowl loss to Florida, his experiences laid the groundwork for a nuanced understanding of the game.
Now, with his son Zak on the Ohio State team and playing as a tight end, the bond between father and son further amplifies the emotional stakes. It’s no wonder that after the championship win, Herbstreit shared a touching moment on Instagram, posting a photo of him embracing Zak with a heartfelt message that celebrated not just the win but their shared journey. “Love you Zak! Congratulations @ohiostatefb – what a special night!” he wrote, perfectly encapsulating the blend of pride, love, and joy.
Furthermore, the dynamic within the Herbstreit household has grown even more interesting after the news that his youngest son, Chase, a promising three-star quarterback, committed to Michigan for the 2025 recruiting cycle. This decision adds an intriguing layer to Kirk’s narrative, and may even serve to quell any lingering concerns about bias in his commentary.
As the dust settles on the National Championship victory, it’s clear that Kirk Herbstreit isn’t just a commentator; he’s a passionate father, a nostalgic alumnus, and an engaged observer of a game that has shaped him personally and professionally. His emotional outcry speaks volumes about the genuine love that college football inspires—reminding all of us that behind every statistic and game analysis is a story woven of passion, pride, and an unwavering connection to one’s roots. In a world where neutrality is often expected, perhaps it’s these moments of vulnerability that truly connect us as fans and remind us of why we love the game.
