Herbstreit’s golden retriever becomes a fan favorite
Move over Uga, there’s a new top dog in football.
Ben, a golden retriever owned by Kirk Herbstreit, became an instant fan favorite throughout college football and the NFL this season.
“It’s crazy, right. It’s been fun. He’s so welcoming to people because it’s been great,” Herbstreit said as he was taking Ben on a walk around his Las Vegas hotel before the Dec. 14 game between the Raiders and the Los Angeles Chargers.
Football’s two most beloved canines got to meet before the SEC Championship game on Dec. 2. Uga XI and Ben exchanged greetings and got to sniff each other on the sideline in Atlanta.
This is the second year Herbstreit has been football’s busiest announcer as the analyst on Amazon Prime Video’s “Thursday Night Football”, part of the crew for ESPN’S “Gameday” and then calling Saturday night college football games on either ESPN or ABC.
Besides the hectic schedule, the 10-year-old, 95-pound golden retriever has provided a piece of home on the road for Herbstreit during what has been a challenging year for his family.
Zak Herbstreit, Kirk’s 20-year-old son who is a tight end at Ohio State, was hospitalized due to a heart condition in June. He is not practicing with the team and continues to receive treatment.
“It was a little tougher to go away from home this year. Just having him come out with me is the best companion you can hope for. He’s super chill and welcoming,” said Herbstreit. “What’s cool is taking him to the games. Both production groups have got to know him. He’s really become part of the team. If I don’t bring him to the meetings people ask.”
Golden retrievers have been a part of Herbstreit’s life for nearly 40 years. He said his family got their first one in 1985 when he was a sophomore in high school.
Ben is the leader of Herbstreit’s current group of four, which he got from the same breeder in New Jersey.
There’s also Theo (6), Mitch (3) and Peter (11 weeks). Peter became part of the family three weeks ago when Herbstreit made the trip to get him after College Gameday before the Army-navy game in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on Dec. 9.
When it comes to mannerisms, Ben is a lot like his owner. Both are laid back, quiet and analytical.
“Just to have him in the hotel room. I can be doing my (analyst) boards and he’ll be right next to me. It’s his personality that makes me appreciate who he is,” Herbstreit said. “He’s a partner. He’s made a night and day difference for me being on the road.”
However, even Herbstreit has been surprised about the level of popularity that Ben has achieved.
“Because of his disposition he’s calming and a happy dog. He helps with the morale with everyone,” he said.