There are numerous rivalries in the world of college football, and supporters of each team target one another. Nevertheless, on Thursday, the community united to pay tribute to one of the sport’s greats.
After taking his golden retriever, Ben, on the road last year, ESPN college football commentator Kirk Herbstreit, who has long been calling and analyzing the game, gained popularity among fans.
Ben accompanied Kirk everywhere they went, including the broadcast booth during Herbstreit’s game calls.
Sadly, Ben was given a cancer diagnosis this year. Kirk announced on social media on Thursday that he had to let him go since the illness had progressed to Ben’s organs.
Although it’s quite difficult to write, I wanted to let you know how much many of you cared for and loved Ben. Today, we learned that Ben’s cancer had spread to all of his organs, and since there was nothing further we could do, we had to let him go. Ben was one of the best dogs I’ve ever owned. jDvPTbNv2M pic.twitter.com/
The news of the death of college football’s greatest dog devastated the whole football community, and even Herbstreits’ former school, Ohio State, where he played quarterback, posted a touching message to Ben.
Ben, Ohio State Honors
“Rest in peace to the best boy, Ben,” read the Ohio State X page alongside a photo of Ben. We shall miss you.
Ben, the best boy, may you rest in peace. ❤️ @KirkHerbstreit pic.twitter.com/ZSDsaYquU3 You will be missed.
— November 7, 2024, Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB)
In addition, numerous other collegiate football teams from Georgia, Texas, Michigan, Washington, and any other team you can think of honored Ben.
Everyone will miss Ben, who was a part of their college football Saturday. During this trying time, our thoughts and prayers are with Kirk and his family.
