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LSU puts up touching press box tribute to Kirk Herbstreit's dog, Ben: 'College football's best friend'

On3 imageby:Andrew Graham•11/09/24•

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Mark J. Rebilas | USA TODAY Sports

Since the passing of his golden retriever, Ben, on Thursday, Kirk Herbstreit has kept up his regular football duties, including calling the LSU–Alabama game from Tiger Stadium on Saturday night. But his furry friend was remembered in the press box.

The simple gesture for the late companion of the broadcaster, set up by the hosts, featured an array of yellow and purple flowers. Along with that, was a framed image of Herbstreit and his dog and a simple message.

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“Ben Herbstreit, college football’s best friend,” it read.

Ben was undergoing treatment for cancer throughout 2024 and Herbstreit announced recently that it had taken a far more intensive turn.

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He shared the news of the passing of his beloved pet in a heartfelt social media post.

“This is really hard to write but so many of you have loved and cared about Ben that I wanted to let you know,” Herbstreit said. “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. I’ve had dogs my whole life but Ben was 1 on 1. He was smart-loving-gentle-patient-inquisitive-and welcoming to all. Always a big smile and a soft tail wag. He and I could communicate..he and I understood each other and had each others backs. He was with me more than anyone at home and traveling with me for work. Such an easy going companion. Hard day-but he will live within all of us forever. God please bless his majestic soul and thank you for putting him in my life for the last 10 years-a true blessing. Love you Ben.”

The passing of Herbstreit’s furry friend was not unexpected, as he shared recently that Ben was undergoing some intensive medical treatment. He asked followers and fans of the pup to share their prayers and well wishes.

“One of the hardest things I’ve gone through in my life,” Herbstreit said on social media. “Ben is my best friend and companion. I love him with all of my heart. If you’re a spiritual person I’d love for you to pray for my boy. He’s currently in an ER hospital overnight and I’m picking him up tomorrow for another round of Vitamin C. Please pray for Ben and hope he pulls out of it.”

And while Ben might’ve left this earth physically, college football fans — and the Herbstreit family, certainly — will hold the beloved retriever in their hearts.