Here’s a refined version of the story:
Kirk Herbstreit Breaks Down: Tears Flow After Ohio State’s CFP Triumph on ESPN
ESPN college football analyst and Ohio State alumnus Kirk Herbstreit became visibly emotional during postgame coverage after the Buckeyes’ 34–23 win over Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff National Championship on January 20, 2025.
Herbstreit, who played quarterback at Ohio State from 1989 to 1992 and now works alongside Chris Fowler, was seen reaching for a tissue on-screen as he wiped away tears. When asked by Scott Van Pelt if he was okay, he admitted, “I’m a little emotional. I’m just fired up for these guys.”
On The Pat McAfee Show the next day, Herbstreit opened up about the deeply personal reasons behind his reaction. He described it as “almost like a perfect storm”—a convergence of emotional highs and lows over the past year:
Wife’s health: His wife, Ally (sometimes referred to as Alison), was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Son’s struggle: His son Zak, a tight end at OSU, suffered heart failure two years ago and had to retire medically, with talk of a potential heart transplant.
Family loss: The Herbstreits lost their beloved family dog Ben to cancer last November.
He shared heartfelt gratitude toward coach Ryan Day for supporting Zak through his recovery and keeping him connected to the program.
Additionally, Herbstreit expressed pride in the resilience of the Buckeyes—especially after their midseason stumble against Michigan:
They went to hell and back… I know what they faced after that Michigan loss. I know the pain… You just kept on talking about each other… and they won four playoff games.”
While some fans questioned the objectivity of such emotions from a broadcaster tied to Ohio State, many others praised Herbstreit’s authenticity and honesty in a high-profile moment.
In Summary:
On January 20, 2025, Ohio State claimed the CFP title with a 34‑23 victory in Atlanta.
During live coverage, Herbstreit fought back tears of pride and relief.
He later revealed that it was a combination of personal struggle and professional loyalty that brought him to tears.
The moment sparked mixed reactions, but many applauded the heartfelt display from a longtime Buckeye.
Let me know if you’d like more behind‑the‑scenes insights, fan reactions, or coach Ryan Day’s perspective.
Leave a Reply