This is a story that tells us that everything isn’t what it seems. When Ohio State sealed the National Championship victory with a final score of 34-23 against Notre Dame, ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit became visibly emotional. During his post game coverage, the world saw him blinking back tears. People initially thought it’s because he was a former Buckeyes and his son Zak Herbstreit is part of the championship lineup. While that may be partly true, that’s nothing compared to what he’s going through. 

Kirk Herbstreit is hit with one of the hardest blows of life and Pat McAfee’s X post on January 22 revealed it. In the video, the 55-year-old father of four sons made a heartfelt confession behind his emotional display and it’s to do with his TE son. He revealed, “My son had heart failure two years ago. They’re talking about a heart replacement therapy for a while and he had to medically retire and Ryan Day, I think the gratitude I have for Ryan Day putting his arms around Zak and keeping him involved.”

In spite of his son Zak Herbstreit’s medical condition, Ryan Day kept him on the team to make him a part of the National Championship victory in his fourth season in Ohio State. That is truly one of the most virtuous deeds by the Buckeyes HC who faced his fair share of pressure this past season. But this isn’t the only grim news surrounding his family. 

Following the revelation, media personality Brad Galli gave a clearer picture of Kirk Herbstreit’s grim situation. He wrote on X, “Herbstreit said his wife was diagnosed with cancer, Ben died, and his son on OSU had heart failure two years ago ?and Day wanted him to stay.)” In addition to his son’s revelation, he also admitted that his wife Alison, who was a cheerleader for the Buckeyes, is diagnosed with breast cancer. By the end of the video, Herbstreit fought to blink back tears as emotions took over him. 

Kirk Herbstreit deserves compassion

These latest revelations by Kirk Herbstreit followed a huge loss he faced back a couple of months back. His beloved golden retriever Ben, succumbed to a battle with cancer. Despite undergoing treatment for leukemia and lymphoma, his loyal road trip companion passed away on November 7, leaving a big void in not only Herbstreit’s life, but also among the huge crowd of fans who have come to love and adore the furry GameDay entertainer. 

Despite the series of unfortunate circumstances, Kirk Herbstreit also had to bear the criticism of haters for his alleged bias towards Ohio State. Alabama athlete Austin Randolph also chimed in with heartfelt support writing, “The hate to Kirk Herbstreit is so lame and corny. Guy works harder than anyone in the industry and does more for the sport than a lot. He’s paid to give his opinion and that’s what he does. Prayers for his family.” 

We wish the best for Kirk Herbstreit and his family as our prayers rest with them in these trying times.