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Every college football fan looks up to College GameDay. Every week, new teams, new players and new emotions. Similarly, this week, college football has entered its 11th week. Big programs like the Alabama and Colorado Buffs are entering this week after their bye week with lots of preparation and vision to win. Every Saturday, some on-field performances have our hearts. But today not the players but a special guest is getting all the love.

Kirk Herbstreit, a well-known football analyst for ESPN, brought one of his three puppies to Tiger Stadium. Koki Riley, an LSU insider, shared a cute video of the puppy playing around while Kirk is busy doing his job: “It’s not Ben, but Kirk Herbstreit has brought one of his three puppies to Baton Rouge. #LSU” Unfortunately, Krik lost his close family member, Ben, on Thursday following a prolonged illness. The golden retriever was a very special member of his entire family. Condolences to Krik and his family; we can feel you.

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Ben was diagnosed with leukaemia in March. The disease is a type of cancer that affects the blood and makes it difficult for the body to fight infections. Every sports fan has witnessed Kirk’s love for Ben. The analysts shared that Ben had major surgery in July to remove two cancerous tumors from his spleen and intestine.

Kirk could not stop himself from dropping a heartfelt message for Ben. His relationship with Ben was very public; therefore, Kirk decided to share the news on X. “This is really hard to write but so many of you have loved and cared about Ben that I wanted to let you know. We found out today the cancer had spread throughout Ben’s organs and there was nothing left we could do—we had to let him go. I’ve had dogs my whole life but Ben was 1 on 1. He was smart-loving-gentle-patient-inquisitive-and welcoming to all.” We know that, Kirk. The entire CFB is going to miss Ben on the college game days.

He added, “Always a big smile and a soft tail wag. He and I could communicate..he and I understood each other and had each others backs. He was with me more than anyone at home and traveling with me for work. Such an easygoing companion. Hard day-but he will live within all of us forever. God, please bless his majestic soul, and thank you for putting him in my life for the last 10 years-a true blessing. Love you Ben.”

We are sure fans are missing Ben already, but the guest today is soon going to be everybody’s favorite. All the love to the entire Herbstreit family.

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Ben Herbstreit at CollegeGame Days

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Kirk Herbstreit brings a puppy to College GameDay—how do pets help us through tough times?

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Ben Herbstreit is going to be remembered forever. If you haven’t seen his videos on CollegeGame Day, then you have missed out on a lot. Unfortunately, on November 2, Ben couldn’t travel with State College for the matchup between Ohio State and Penn State. But Nittany Lions made him feel special by preparing a gift basket for Ben that had a bed, treats and some toys.

On October 26, Ben traveled to the LSU Tigers and Texas A&M Aggies games and met his other friend Reveillie X, who is a Texas A&M’s mascot. Both of them had a great time together. Reveille approached Ben, who was wearing a press credential. We are sue Kirk would have enjoyed them together.

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Ben has his own fans, and they used to wait for his presence. How could he miss week 8? Georgia vs Texas: He started his day by getting groomed for the big day of the F1 United States Grand Prix with a race car toy. How cute is that? However, it was a long day for him, and he was seen taking a nap to recharge.

On November 2nd, Ben could not make it to the Buckeyes game, which was against Oregon, because of his treatment, but Duck’s mascot sent him a special care package. Who knew it would be the last one? Ben was seen again on October 15 in Berkeley, California. For the first time, the California Golden Bears hosted College GameDay, and Ben was all set to enjoy it in the new time zone. All happy and excited. Rest in peace, Ben!

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Kirk Herbstreit brings a puppy to College GameDay—how do pets help us through tough times?