Michael Mackelvie Podcast Kirk Herbstreit: The Future of Football, Gameday Saturdays, and Family
14 snips
Sep 4, 2025 
Kirk Herbstreit, a prominent college football analyst for ESPN's College GameDay, shares insights from his remarkable journey and the shifting landscape of college football. He candidly reveals his challenging childhood and the path that led him to broadcasting. Kirk addresses his fears about the future of college football amidst changing governance and the impact of NIL deals. He also discusses the importance of local game-day traditions, the evolution of quarterback roles, and what’s next for star recruit Arch Manning.
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Payphone Moment That Changed Everything
- Kirk Herbstreit describes getting the College GameDay job via a pager call while standing at a payphone.
- He recounts audition nerves and disbelief when offered a three-year deal that changed his career.
Calling Kurt Warner In The Arena League
- Kirk recalls calling arena football games including Kurt Warner's Barnstormers season.
- He links Warner's arena development to the NFL opportunity that launched his career.
From Buckeye Tape To ESPN Sideline
- Kirk describes building a homemade audition tape after Ohio State and hustling into local radio.
- He details audition prep, studio tryouts, and the path from sideline reporter to ESPN.