College Football Sportscaster Kirk Herbstreit Breaks Down During Heartfelt Tribute to Beloved Dog
Guest Contributor
In the world of college football broadcasting, few voices are as familiar as Kirk Herbstreit’s. Known for his deep knowledge of the game and his steady presence on ESPN, Herbstreit has spent years traveling across the country to cover some of the sport’s most anticipated matchups. But for many fans, it wasn’t just the analysis or the commentary that stood out — it was the golden retriever often seen by his side. That dog, named Ben, was more than a companion. He was a beloved fixture of Herbstreit’s professional life and a quiet star in his own right. For those who followed Herbstreit’s career, Ben became just as synonymous with college football Saturdays as the roar of the crowd or the clash of rivals.
The recent news of Ben’s passing at the age of 10 has touched many, not just because he was a familiar face, but because of the deep bond he shared with his human. As Herbstreit shared in a heartfelt tribute during a recent broadcast, Ben had been with him through years of travel, long workdays, and countless games. Whether roaming the sidelines, sitting in the booth, or simply keeping his dad company on the road, Ben was always there — a steady, joyful presence in a life often marked by motion.
Herbstreit’s tribute to Ben was emotional and deeply personal. As he spoke, the grief in his voice was unmistakable, but so too was the gratitude. He described Ben not just as a pet, but as a best friend. For a decade, Ben had been a constant, offering companionship in hotel rooms, comfort after tough games, and a sense of home no matter where the job took them. It was a moving reminder of how deeply dogs can embed themselves into the fabric of our lives, especially for those who live much of their time away from home.
What made Ben so special to fans was his personality. Described as friendly and charming, he had a way of connecting with people that transcended team loyalties or on-field rivalries. In a sport often defined by its intensity, Ben offered a moment of levity and warmth. He was the kind of dog who could soften even the most heated sports debates, simply by being himself. I found this detail striking — that in stadiums filled with tens of thousands of passionate fans, it was a golden retriever who could bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
As Ben aged, the signs of time naturally began to show. Like many senior dogs, he slowed down, but never lost his spark. Herbstreit noted that Ben’s zest for life remained intact, even as his body began to tire. That enduring spirit is something many dog lovers will recognize — the way our pets continue to give us their best, even in their final days. It’s a quiet kind of courage, and one that often goes unnoticed until it’s gone.
When Herbstreit announced Ben’s passing, the response from fans was immediate and heartfelt. Social media filled with messages of sympathy and shared memories. Many had never met Ben in person, but felt as though they knew him. That’s the power of a dog’s presence — it reaches beyond the immediate circle and touches lives in subtle but lasting ways. For those who followed Herbstreit’s career, Ben wasn’t just a dog on the screen. He was a part of the story.
During his tribute, Herbstreit offered a reflection that resonated deeply: “Dogs’ only flaw as a species is that they don’t live long enough. But the warmth they give us — that never goes away. So neither will Ben.” It’s a sentiment that captures the essence of what so many feel when they lose a beloved pet. The pain of the loss is real, but so too is the enduring comfort of the memories. Ben may no longer be at Herbstreit’s side on the road, but his impact remains, woven into the broadcaster’s life and the hearts of fans who came to love him from afar.
For anyone who has experienced the companionship of a dog, this story is a poignant reminder of just how profound that bond can be. Whether it’s a quiet walk, a shared look, or the simple comfort of knowing they’re near, dogs have a way of giving us exactly what we need, often without us even realizing it. And when they leave, they take a piece of our hearts with them — but they also leave something behind. A warmth. A memory. A legacy.
As the college football season continues, there may be a moment when Herbstreit pauses, perhaps instinctively looking for Ben. And while the golden retriever may no longer be physically present, his spirit — loyal, joyful, and steadfast — will no doubt remain close. In a world that moves fast and changes often, that kind of love is a rare and lasting gift.
