The Herbstreit family had a proud moment to celebrate this weekend as Chase Herbstreit, the youngest son of ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit, officially began his college football journey.
Fresh off his graduation from St. Xavier in Cincinnati, Chase enrolled at the University of Michigan earlier this month and is now part of one of the most storied programs in the sport.
What makes his commitment even more notable is the family’s deep-rooted ties to Ohio State. Kirk Herbstreit, a former Buckeyes quarterback, has long been associated with the program as a player and a prominent voice in college football.
Yet, Chase stunned many in December when he committed to Michigan, Ohio State’s biggest rival. The decision sparked plenty of reactions, but it was the right fit for the Herbstreit family.
Fans And Family Rally Around Chase
Support poured in across social media after news of Chase’s official enrollment. Messages of encouragement quickly rolled in from fellow Michigan fans to St. Xavier alumni.
What an incredible ceremony last night celebrating the @stxinfo Class of ‘25-culminating a memorable 4 years!
— Kirk Herbstreit (@KirkHerbstreit) May 30, 2025
So thankful for the teachers-staff-and coaches that fed into this group daily during these formative years. Chase had a great experience and created friendships that… pic.twitter.com/ZsZ7UK26s2
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“Thanks for highlighting this excellent school! Our sons were fifth generation! Go Bombers and welcome to the Long blue line Chase,” one supporter wrote, referencing Chase’s high school roots.
Thanks for highlighting this excellent school! Our sons were fifth generation!
— Diane Bissmeyer (@DianeBissmeyer) May 30, 2025
Go Bombers and welcome to the Long blue line Chase.
Another fan added, “Definitely a proud parent moment to celebrate. Congratulations and God bless your son’s next journey.”
Definitely a proud parent moment to celebrate!! 🎉 Congratulations and God bless your son’s next journey!!
— Jenny L Hashim (@jenny_hashim) May 30, 2025
Several others echoed similar sentiments, welcoming Kirk and his wife Alli to the “empty nest club” and wishing Chase success in Ann Arbor.
Despite growing up an avid Buckeyes fan, Chase never received a scholarship offer from Ohio State. Kirk addressed the situation with honesty during an appearance on ESPN, explaining the family’s approach to the unexpected path.
“Ohio State didn’t really pursue him to the point of offering him a scholarship. They were close,” Kirk said. “I know that 80 percent of people are thrilled and 20 percent are jackasses… I just try to ignore that stuff the best I can and stay focused on the positive.”
Kirk Herbstreit currently covers college football for ESPN and works NFL broadcasts with Amazon Prime. Even as a public figure with deep Buckeye ties, he made it clear that his son’s happiness and opportunity come first.
Now, as Chase steps into his role as a Michigan Wolverine, the next chapter begins, with plenty of eyes watching and a flood of support behind him.
Also Read: Kirk Herbstreit Tells Us How He Really Feels About U.S. Troops
