Ben Herbstreit: A Golden Retriever's Impact on College GameDay and Beyond
Introduction
Ben Herbstreit, a golden retriever, transcended the typical role of a pet, becoming a beloved figure in the world of college football. As the loyal companion of ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit, Ben's presence on "College GameDay" and at various sporting events touched the hearts of fans nationwide. His journey, marked by joy, courage, and unconditional love, left an indelible mark on the sport and the people who knew him.
Ben's Rise to Fame
Ben Herbstreit first appeared on ESPN’s College Gameday in 2021. However, Ben ascended into stardom in 2024, making common appearances on "GameDay" alongside Herbstreit. He was typically seen on sidelines of huge games, with teams rolling out the red carpet for the 10-year-old golden retriever. What began as a personal comfort for Kirk Herbstreit transformed into a nationwide phenomenon. Kirk Herbstreit brought a family member to the spotlight: his dog, Ben. Ben's presence brought a sense of home to Kirk Herbstreit. He needed her travel companion. Hotel rooms can sometimes feel like islands of solitude and is warm presence became my anchor to home, making my journeys feel less like wandering and more like belonging. When I was working in a hotel room, wrote broadcast Booth. On the college game day set. Reaching down and feeling that fur at my feet, it made me feel like I was home. Ben wasn't out here to become a social media star, but he became one just by being himself.
A Fixture on College GameDay
Ben's appearances on "College GameDay" became a highlight for many viewers. Though massive crowds are always expected for "College GameDay," at least a few of the morning show's audience showed up for a furry staff member. He was often seen on the sidelines of major games, with teams extending special welcomes to the beloved golden retriever. Every week schools and their staffs blow me away with their kind gestures towards Ben. So grateful. And this week is INCREDIBLE! Ben didn't make the trip to State College for the top-five matchup between Ohio State and Penn State, but that didn't stop the Nittany Lions from showing their love and support for the golden retriever.Penn State made Ben a gift basket that included a bed, treats, toys and a "Very Important Pup" credential.
Ben making an early morning SportsCenter appearance this morning in Bloomington!!! Oct. 19 The golden retriever brought his joy back on the road for Week 8. Ben began his day by getting in spirit for the F1 United States Grand Prix with a plushy race car toy. But with the long day Ben has in Austin -- with No. Oct. 12 Ben couldn't physically make the trip ahead of the Ohio State Buckeyes-Oregon Ducks matchup due to treatment. But Ben's presence was felt with a special care package from the Ducks' mascot.Really appreciate you thinking of Ben. Missed this week for treatment but will be back out next week. Oct. 5The California Golden Bears hosted College GameDay for the first time in history, putting Ben on the Pacific time zone. Sept. 28 From the looks of it, Ben was a fan of the GameDay crew's takes on Lane Kiffin's Ole Miss Rebels heading into their matchup against the Kentucky Wildcats. To Ben, there is no better feeling than the fresh turf at Bryant-Denny Stadium.This dude Ben is a mess. Sept. 21 No one does it better than Ben. In preparation to steal the show before the Tennessee Volunteers took on the Oklahoma Sooners, Ben had to test the turf to ensure it was in game shape. Only the best in the business receives those all-access credentials, and Ben is certainly that guy.Big fella taking in the pregame warmups on the field… Ben is with me and is excited to be with me back to Cincinnati and then onto Norman for the Sooners/Vols! Sept. 7 Who works harder than Ben? No one. Sept. 1 The LSU Tigers and USC Trojans set high expectations for the college football season. Ben Herbstreit sits on the field with his dad, Kirk.
More Than Just a Mascot: Ben's Impact
Ben's influence extended beyond the football field. He became known for his friendly demeanor and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Ben didn't care who you were, everyone deserved his love. I think we can all learn from that. At a time when everything seems to be aimed at dividing us, our love of football unites us every weekend. What I experienced with Ben was that and so much more. From laying at the feet of commentator Rece Davis in the broadcast booth, to receiving pets from former Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy just moments before a College Football Playoff game, there was never a doubt he was loved by all he encountered. In January, Ben became the first dog to have an accredited media pass to the Rose Bowl. He was the game’s “Chief Happiness Officer.” He has since been accredited at other football games under many other titles like “Treat Analyst” or “Wide Retriever” to name a few. College football has always been graced with the presence of iconic live mascots. Over the last two seasons, Ben has had encounters with Georgia’s bulldog mascot Uga XI, Texas A&M’s Reveille and Even the Texas Longhorn Bevo.
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A Symbol of Unity and Unconditional Love
Ben became a symbol of unity and unconditional love. The Rose Bowl named him its chief happiness officer, and that's exactly what he did. He made everyone happy and he did it without even trying. He just wagged that tail or nestled up against strangers like they were family and that's what they became. On planes and hotel lobbies, on the beach, in the mountains, it didn't matter if you were a college student, a movie star, a national championship quarterback or even a state governor. He became universally loved by college football fans.
Battle with Cancer and Passing
In March, Ben was diagnosed with leukemia, a cancer of blood-forming tissues that reduces the body's ability to fight infection. According to Herbstreit, Ben had to undergo major surgery in July to remove two cancerous masses, on his spleen and intestine. Sadly, after his cancer had spread too far to be treated, Ben died on Nov. 7. The college football world is in mourning over the loss of its most popular pet dog, Ben Herbstreit. Kirk Herbstreit even received a note from President Joe Biden after Ben's death.
Tributes and Remembrance
ESPN gave a touching tribute to former Ohio State football quarterback and " College GameDay" host Kirk Herbstreit on Friday night. ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit's dog, Ben, traveled with the "GameDay" host weekly, bringing his warm presence to college football fans nationwide. The tributes to Ben poured in from across the nation. "Our hearts and paws go out to Kirk Herbstreit and his family during this time," the Cane's official account posted on Nov. 8. "Ben touched all of our lives and will be dearly missed.”
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