Why Kirk Herbstreit’s Son’s New Analyst Role Has College Football Fans Divided and Stirring Controversy
When a name like Herbstreit pops up in college football circles, you can’t just brush it off like another headline. Kirk Herbstreit, the titan of ESPN analysis, now has his son, Zak Herbstreit, stepping into the spotlight as a national analyst for On3 in 2025. But hold up—does this move scream “nepotism” or is Zak the real deal ready to blaze his own trail? After all, the young Herbstreit went from Ohio State tight end to sideline interviewer and host of “Off Script,” covering the biggest games with a fresh, insider perspective. Fans are divided—some cheering him on, others skeptics poking holes in his résumé. Yet, Zak’s fired up, promising passion and a player’s mindset. So the burning question: Can Zak Herbstreit escape the long shadow of his famous dad and carve out a legitimate name in college football media? Time’s gonna tell if he’s more than just a family name in the biz. LEARN MORE.
Kirk Herbstreit’s son, former Ohio State tight end Zak Herbstreit, will be covering college football this season as a national analyst.
On Monday morning, On3 revealed that it’s hiring Herbstreit’s son for the 2025 season. He’ll interview the top players, coaches and voices in college football on his show called “Off Script.” It’s a great opportunity for the son of ESPN’s top analyst.
“Zak has tremendous natural talent and has grown up immersed in college,” On3 Founder Shannon Terry said. “His ability to connect with today’s college stars will bring a fresh and authentic perspective to the On3 network. He’ll be traveling each week to the biggest games across the country, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at everything that makes Saturdays the greatest day in sports.”
Immediately after On3 announced this hire, fans questioned Herbstreit’s résumé. Of course, some people congratulated him on this accomplishment.
“Congratulations @ZHerbstreit Go Buckeyes,” one fan wrote on X.
“Is this the son that runs @KirkHerbstreit’s Twitter? Not sure how he’s gonna do both,” a second fan replied.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch.
“Totally not nepotism I mean just look at all the hard work put in by Zak the last year building his online presence tweeting 0 times in a year,” a third fan commented.
“I don’t necessarily think all nepotism is bad but what has he done to earn this role at all,” a social media user wrote.
“Atta baby young man,” another social media user said. “Best of luck to you on this new journey!”
Zak Herbstreit is obviously amped up for this opportunity. He said, “I’m grateful for the path that led me here, and I’m excited to bring real passion, insight, and a player’s mindset to the content that On3 creates.”
Time will tell if Herbstreit can become one of the best analysts in the business.
Related: Kirk Herbstreit Named One Of ‘Most Annoying’ People In Sports Media
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