Overview

• Kirk Herbstreit became emotional on-air after Ohio State's victory over Notre Dame in the College Football National Championship, attributing it to personal challenges and the team's journey.
• Herbstreit revealed his wife, Alison, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024, adding to a difficult year for their family.
• His son Zak, a former Ohio State tight end, had to medically retire two years ago due to heart failure but remained involved with the team thanks to coach Ryan Day's support.
• The family also faced the loss of their beloved golden retriever, Ben, who had been a fixture on College GameDay, to cancer in November.
• Herbstreit expressed gratitude for Ohio State's resilience and the support his family received, calling the emotional moment a release of pent-up feelings from a challenging year.