Ohio State’s journey to the national championship was anything but smooth. Initially considered one of the most talented teams in college football, the Buckeyes faced significant challenges throughout the season. After suffering two regular-season losses, some fans had written off Ryan Day’s squad. However, the Buckeyes regrouped and delivered a remarkable performance in December, culminating in a triumphant victory over Notre Dame in the College Football Playoff.
Kirk Herbstreit’s Emotional Response
The Buckeyes’ success was enough to bring ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit to tears. Known for his objective commentary, Herbstreit found it hard to contain his emotions during the postgame coverage. After the final whistle, he joined Scott Van Pelt on “SportsCenter,” where he struggled to maintain his composure.
“I’m a little emotional…I’m just fired up for these guys,” Herbstreit admitted, jokingly suggesting that Van Pelt shouldn’t have asked him the first question. His heartfelt reaction was a testament to the journey the Buckeyes had taken this season. “I love all these Ohio State teams,” he reflected, “But this team, because of what they went through to get to this point, you’re just happy.”
The Journey to Glory
Ohio State’s path to the national title was a rollercoaster ride filled with ups and downs. The Buckeyes faced heavy scrutiny after their losses, particularly the one against Michigan, which left many wondering if they could recover. Yet, the team’s resilience shone through as they fought their way back into contention. The victory against Notre Dame not only secured their first national championship in a decade but also silenced critics who had doubted their capabilities.
Herbstreit, who has deep ties to Ohio State, played a pivotal role in highlighting the challenges faced by the team and its coaching staff. His connection to the program runs deep, as he played quarterback for the Buckeyes in the early 1990s and has a son on the team. This personal investment made his emotional response all the more poignant.
Kirk Herbstreit’s Connection to Ohio State
To say that Kirk Herbstreit has close ties to Ohio State is an understatement. He played for the Buckeyes from 1989 to 1992, serving as a senior captain and earning the title of MVP in his final year. His father was also involved with the program as both a player and coach, creating a legacy that Herbstreit continues to honor.
His son, Zak, is currently a walk-on tight end for Ohio State, further solidifying the family’s connection to the university. Despite his emotional ties, Herbstreit insists that he maintains objectivity in his broadcasting career. “When I call these games, I’m incredibly objective,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to fair commentary.
Defending Ryan Day
Throughout Ohio State’s playoff run, Herbstreit was vocal in defending head coach Ryan Day. After the Buckeyes secured a win against Tennessee, he called out a “lunatic fringe” of fans who were critical of Day. This segment of the fanbase had grown increasingly vocal, with Herbstreit estimating it had expanded from 8-10% to about 15-20%.
“These fans are as powerful as anywhere in the country,” he remarked, highlighting the pressure that comes with coaching at a prestigious program like Ohio State. Despite the criticism, Herbstreit praised Day for handling the challenges with class and integrity. “I know what he and his wife and his family had to go through,” he said, expressing admiration for Day’s resilience.
Herbstreit’s Reflections on the Championship
As Ohio State celebrated its national championship victory, Herbstreit took a moment to reflect on the significance of the win. The triumph not only marked a return to glory for the Buckeyes but also served as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff. “It’s really tough to be a coach at a premium school where you’re expected to win every game,” he noted.
The emotional weight of the victory was palpable, not just for the fans but for those closely connected to the program. For Herbstreit, this championship was a culmination of years of effort and perseverance, making it all the more special.
Kirk Herbstreit’s Family Legacy
Herbstreit’s family legacy in college football extends beyond his own playing days. Three of his sons have played at the collegiate level, with Zak currently on the Ohio State roster. His older sons, Tye and Jake, played at Clemson, while his youngest son, Chase, has committed to rival Michigan for 2025. This family dynamic adds another layer to Herbstreit’s emotional investment in Ohio State football.
In the end, the Buckeyes’ national championship journey was not just about the wins and losses; it was about overcoming adversity, uniting a fanbase, and solidifying a legacy. As Herbstreit aptly put it, this team’s journey made the victory all the more rewarding, proving that in college football, anything is possible.
