ESPN college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit came under fire from viewers after his golden retriever, Ben, made an appearance in the broadcast booth during the pregame show ahead of the LSU-USC game. Some viewers criticized the dog’s presence, but Herbstreit defended Ben against negative comments. While teaming up with Al Michaels for the NFL Week 2 broadcast, it seems that Ben has won over the legendary play-by-play broadcaster. Despite admitting he is not a fan of dogs, Michaels has grown fond of Herbstreit’s 10-year-old golden retriever, praising the dog’s behavior and intelligence.
Michaels shared a humorous anecdote about walking with Herbstreit and Ben in a hotel, where the dog led the way to Herbstreit’s room with precision. Despite not being an animal person or a fan of vegetables, Michaels joked that he would prefer having a pet over consuming a vegetable. Herbstreit also revealed that Ben had been battling leukemia, requiring surgery to remove masses from his spleen and intestine. The dog had a tough recovery period, but is slowly regaining his health and personality, much to the relief of Herbstreit and his family.
The bond between Herbstreit, Michaels, and Ben appears to have deepened over time, as Michaels has developed a newfound appreciation for the golden retriever despite his initial reservations about dogs. Their shared experiences and the positive impact Ben has had on them have strengthened their friendship and camaraderie. As they continue to work together on broadcasting games, the presence of Ben brings an element of joy and humor to their interactions, creating a lighthearted atmosphere in the broadcast booth.
Herbstreit’s dedication to Ben’s well-being and recovery reflects the strong connection he has with his beloved pet. Despite facing health challenges, Ben has shown resilience and a fighting spirit, ultimately coming out of his difficult situation with Herbstreit’s support and care. The story of Ben’s battle with leukemia and recovery serves as a testament to the bond between humans and animals, highlighting the importance of compassion, love, and companionship in overcoming adversity.
As Herbstreit and Michaels team up to call an NFL game between the Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills, Ben’s presence adds a heartwarming touch to the broadcast. The golden retriever’s charm and playful nature bring a sense of warmth and positivity to the commentary, showcasing the unique bond between man and man’s best friend. Despite facing challenges and criticism, Herbstreit and Ben’s story ultimately demonstrates the power of love, resilience, and friendship in overcoming obstacles and finding joy in the midst of adversity. Their shared experiences with Ben serve as a reminder of the importance of cherishing the moments we have with loved ones, both human and animal.
