Ben, the famed, beloved dog of college football’s Kirk Herbstreit, has passed away

Ben, Kirk Herbstreit’s adorable golden retriever, who has induced countless smiles on so many college campuses over the past two years, has passed away, according to the ESPN “College GameDay” football analyst.

Kirk Herbstreit’s adorable golden retriever Ben, who has induced countless smiles on so many college campuses over the past two years, has passed away, according to the ESPN “College GameDay” football analyst. A certified emotional service animal, Ben became famous for his infectious, friendly nature while in the national spotlight each week. He caused uncontrollable “oohs-and-ahs” while accompanying Herbstreit around the country covering football. Ben would often be seen on set during live productions. The long-time ESPN commentator would also bring his cherished dog along for his “Thursday Night Football” on Prime Video gig. Herbstreit said Ben died after a battle with cancer. “This is really hard to write but so many of you have loved and cared about Ben that I wanted to let you know. We found out today the cancer had spread throughout Bens organs and there was nothing left we could do - we had to let him go,” Herbstreit posted on social media along with a picture showing him with his arm around Ben.