The Cleveland Browns took a moment to honor Kirk Herbstreit’s beloved dog, Ben, in a touching tribute before Thursday night’s matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The classy gesture included a special gift package for Herbstreit, along with a beautifully crafted portrait of him and Ben, paying homage to the golden retriever who had become an iconic part of the college football and NFL communities.
Ben, Herbstreit’s golden retriever, had been by his side for years, accompanying the celebrated sports analyst on his travels and becoming a beloved figure for fans and colleagues alike. The tribute highlighted just how much Ben meant not only to Herbstreit but to the entire football community.
The special moment came less than two weeks after Herbstreit himself paid an emotional tribute to Ben during the November 9 edition of College GameDay.
Fans on social media were quick to respond, with many expressing their appreciation for the Browns’ thoughtful tribute. “Yup, this is AMAZING,” one tweet read, capturing the sentiment of many. “It actually is wholesome,” another fan wrote, while someone else described it as “Pure CLASS.”
Ben was not just any pet—he was a significant part of the fabric of College GameDay. Week after week, Ben would accompany Herbstreit to the set, happily greeting colleagues, fans, and strangers.
His presence brought joy to countless people, and his personality endeared him to everyone who met him. He was known for hanging out on the set, receiving endless pets, and having a blast while Herbstreit fulfilled his broadcasting duties.
The lovable golden retriever was also a familiar face on the set of Thursday Night Football. Each week, Herbstreit brought Ben on the road with him, capturing moments of their travels together—whether it was Ben lounging in a hotel room or sitting by Herbstreit on set.
Ben became part of the football broadcast experience, offering a glimpse into the softer side of sports broadcasting.
The loss of Ben has resonated across the football community. People from all over have shared their condolences and paid tribute to the exceptional dog, recognizing the special bond between him and Herbstreit.
The touching tribute from the Cleveland Browns only emphasized the deep connection Herbstreit had with Ben and how much the golden retriever meant to so many people in the industry.
Kirk Herbstreit, who serves as the color commentator for Thursday Night Football, was visibly moved by the tribute. Herbstreit works alongside legendary broadcaster Al Michaels each Thursday, calling games throughout the NFL season.
His role is to provide in-depth analysis and insight, but moments like these remind us that the world of sports is often about more than just the game—it’s about the relationships and the connections we form along the way.
As the Browns took the field against the Steelers, they carried with them the spirit of Ben—a small but significant reminder of what makes football special. The game itself was a gritty battle, with the Browns holding a 10-6 lead at the start of the fourth quarter.
They were fighting to pull off a major upset against the division-leading Steelers, a testament to the unpredictability and rivalry that comes with AFC North matchups.
The tribute to Ben added an emotional layer to the game, reminding viewers that behind the competitive intensity lies a world of friendships, cherished memories, and heartfelt moments.
As fans watched the game unfold on Amazon Prime Video, they were also given a glimpse of the softer side of sports—a reminder that even in the midst of high-stakes competition, there’s always room for love, compassion, and community.
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