Kirk Herbstreit’s Emotional Message Sparks Concern for Former Ohio State Star’s Family—What Happened Friday?
Here’s a tough one to chew on: how often do we really ponder what lies beneath a college athlete’s heart—literally? Kirk Herbstreit, the unmistakable voice of College GameDay, recently shared a raw and personal reaction to the heartbreaking loss of Ben Christman, a former Ohio State offensive lineman whose untimely death at 21 sheds a stark light on hidden cardiovascular dangers. Christman’s journey—from Buckeyes to Kentucky, then briefly to UNLV—is marked by more than just transfers; it’s a sobering reminder that talent and promise can be imperiled by silent health issues like cardiomyopathy.
Herbstreit didn’t just send condolences; he opened up about his own family’s brush with this invisible threat, underscoring the urgent need to rethink how we screen young athletes before they step on the field. If an echocardiogram could save lives that EKGs miss, isn’t it time someone makes sure it becomes the norm? The conversation stretches beyond sideline chatter — it’s about real people, real risks, and the kind of legacy a young man like Christman leaves behind both on and off the turf. Pull up a chair, let’s dig into this together.
“College GameDay” analyst Kirk Herbstreit is keeping a former Ohio State offensive lineman and his family in his thoughts this Friday.
Ben Christman spent a few seasons at Ohio State before transferring to Kentucky. Following the 2024 season, he went back in the transfer portal and took his talents to UNLV. Unfortunately, he never had the chance to suit up for the program.
Earlier this year, Christman passed away at the age of 21. It was reported in February that he was found dead in an off-campus apartment. However, the cause of death wasn’t revealed until this week.
According to the Clark County coroner’s office, Christman passed away from cardiac arrhythmia and cardiomyopathy, a disease that weakens the heart muscle.
On Friday morning, Herbstreit commented on Christman’s tragic death.
Getty Images.
For starters, Herbstreit offered his condolences to the Christman family. He also explained why he doesn’t mess around when it comes to cardiomyopathy.
“I’m so sorry to hear this and my condolences to Ben’s family-I can’t imagine what they’re going through,” Herbstreit wrote on X. “It’s time we find answers to these existing cardiovascular issues and an EKG isn’t getting it done. Would love to partner with others to mandate that intercollegiate physicals include echocardiograms. My son was diagnosed at 20 years old with cardiomyopathy (enlarged left ventricle). Was severe enough that a heart replacement was talked about if his heart didn’t improve. Thankfully it has improved since the spring of 2023.
“Too many young people are asymptomatic and unaware of any issues that exist. A mandated Echo could help save lives. It’s time for the NCAA and Conference Commissioners to take a look at this. Love to be involved.”
Herbstreit isn’t the only member of the Ohio State community thinking of Christman this Friday, that’s for sure. His legacy – on and off the field – will never be forgotten.
Our thoughts and prayers are also with Christman’s loved ones.
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