Kirk Herbstreit found himself in the crosshairs of Shannon Sharpe after the longtime ESPN college football analyst and former Ohio State quarterback defended Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day during Saturday night’s College Football Playoff broadcast. Herbstreit, known for his loyalty to his alma mater, took shots at critics of Day, including ESPN colleagues, which did not sit well with Sharpe.
Herbstreit’s Defense of Ryan Day
During Ohio State’s dominant 42-17 victory over Tennessee, Herbstreit mocked Buckeyes fans who have called for Day’s dismissal, despite the team’s consistent success under his leadership. Herbstreit dismissed the criticism as unwarranted and extended his frustration to the ESPN “First Take” panel, which includes Sharpe and others who have questioned Day’s performance.
Herbstreit’s comments came with a clear edge, as he insinuated that some analysts were contributing to the negativity surrounding Day’s tenure. The clip of Herbstreit’s remarks quickly circulated online, drawing sharp responses from within ESPN.
Shannon Sharpe’s Fiery Response
Sharpe addressed Herbstreit’s comments during Monday’s episode of First Take, issuing a stern warning not only to Herbstreit but also to ESPN college football play-by-play announcer Chris Fowler, who had joined in the discussion.
“If we gonna be on the same team, if we gonna work for the same network, don’t do that,” Sharpe began, his tone serious. “Kirk, Chris Fowler, I promise you, if you ever mention any platform that I’m on again and talking about I wonder what they gonna say and negativity, I promise you ESPN ain’t got enough bosses to keep me off y’all for what I’m gonna say.”
Sharpe, clearly upset, refrained from escalating the issue further but made his position unmistakably clear. “I’m gonna let y’all slide today. I’m gonna turn it over to D.O. [Dan Orlovsky] before I get myself in trouble, but don’t play with me.”
The Day Debate
Sharpe, along with co-host Stephen A. Smith and other analysts, has been vocal in questioning Ryan Day’s future with Ohio State. Despite an impressive record, including multiple playoff appearances, Day’s tenure has been criticized for his inability to secure victories in critical rivalry games, particularly against Michigan.
This criticism has not only come from media figures but also former Ohio State players and segments of the fan base who feel the Buckeyes’ championship expectations have not been met.
Herbstreit, who has often defended Day, took Saturday night’s opportunity to clap back at these critics following Ohio State’s commanding playoff win. However, his decision to directly call out colleagues like Sharpe only intensified the brewing tension.
A History of Conflict
This is not the first time Herbstreit has come to Day’s defense while criticizing Ohio State fans or analysts. In the past, he has expressed frustration over what he views as unfair treatment of the Buckeyes’ head coach, particularly in light of the program’s consistent success.
Sharpe, on the other hand, has built his reputation on delivering strong, unapologetic takes, making him an unlikely target for Herbstreit’s critique. Sharpe’s warning on Monday was a clear reminder that he isn’t afraid to fire back when challenged.
What’s Next?
The tension between Herbstreit and Sharpe underscores a larger debate within the sports world: how to balance passionate analysis with respect for colleagues. With both men working under the ESPN umbrella, it remains to be seen if this conflict will escalate further or if it will fade into the background as playoff action takes center stage.
For now, Sharpe’s warning leaves no doubt—if Herbstreit or Fowler chooses to mention First Take again, they should be prepared for a response. Meanwhile, the scrutiny on Ryan Day and his future with Ohio State is unlikely to subside, even with the Buckeyes’ latest victory.
As the College Football Playoff continues and the NFL season heats up, this war of words adds yet another layer of drama to an already thrilling sports landscape.
