Kirk Herbstreit has found renewed energy and enthusiasm for ESPN’s College GameDay thanks to its revamped crew, though the journey to this point wasn’t without some self-doubt.
In a recent interview with On3, the seasoned broadcaster opened up about the challenges he faced balancing his commitments to College GameDay, his college football commentary duties for ESPN, and his role as the lead analyst for Amazon Prime Video’s Thursday Night Football. When Herbstreit signed on with Prime Video in 2022, he initially thought that something in his schedule might have to give.
“When I took the Amazon deal three years ago, I thought I would probably have to give something up,” Herbstreit admitted. “It’s so hard to do all three of these things. I didn’t know if I could keep doing GameDay.”
Despite the demanding schedule and intense travel, Herbstreit stuck with College GameDay and found himself reinvigorated by the show’s current lineup, which now includes Pat McAfee and Nick Saban alongside regulars Rece Davis, Desmond Howard, and Lee Corso.
“Now, man, you couldn’t kick me off the set,” Herbstreit said. “I absolutely love it. We’re having a blast.”
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A Fresh Dynamic on the GameDay Set
Herbstreit credited much of the show’s current success to the chemistry among its panel members, especially with the addition of McAfee and Saban.
“I’ve known Coach [Saban] a long, long, long time,” Herbstreit explained. “There’s a serious comfort there with him, me, Pat, Des, and Rece. I think it comes across on air. It feels natural.”
McAfee’s larger-than-life personality has also been a welcome addition to the mix, injecting a new energy into the long-running college football staple.
“Pat brings something unique. He’s got this incredible personality and passion for football that’s infectious,” Herbstreit said. “It’s a dynamic that’s really fun to be a part of.”
Behind-the-Scenes MVPs
Herbstreit also praised the behind-the-scenes team, singling out Stanford Steve for his positive influence. Known for his betting insights, Steve has also brought an upbeat energy to the group.
“Stanford Steve, man, he’s been such a pleasure,” Herbstreit said. “Those behind-the-scenes people who grind, lose sleep, and still bring positive energy are invaluable. Steve and so many others make the show what it is.”
Looking Ahead
Herbstreit expressed hope that the current iteration of GameDay could stick together for years to come, noting that the camaraderie and shared commitment of the team have made the grueling schedule worthwhile.
“I hope it’ll last a long time, having that group together that we have,” he said. “We’re in a great spot. I love having everybody that’s on the show, and hopefully, we can keep it going all the way through the year and for the next few years.”
Though the thought of leaving College GameDay once crossed Herbstreit’s mind, the changes to the show and the energy of its new cast have cemented his place on the iconic program. For Herbstreit, the blend of tradition and innovation has made GameDay a highlight of his packed career—and he’s not ready to step away anytime soon.
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