Longtime ESPN “College GameDay” analyst Kirk Herbstreit isn’t known just for his insights about football. Now Herbstreit’s four-legged friends also have become stars on the screen and on social media.
Herbstreit’s travel companion used to be Ben, but he died last November. Now, when Herbstreit goes on the road for college football games, he travels with golden retriever Peter. On Friday, the Oregon Duck mascot found Herbstreit and Peter in Eugene ahead of “GameDay” broadcasting its popular pregame show Saturday from the University of Oregon. The third-ranked Ducks take on No. 7 Indiana later that day.
The Duck came bearing gifts for Peter. Inside an orange Nike shoebox that said “Peter” on top, there was a bone and plenty of Nike “Zoomies” tennis balls.
A note affixed to the top inside of the shoebox read:
“Dear Peter, Welcome to the University of Oregon! We’re so excited to welcome you on your first trip to Eugene. We hope you enjoy your walks through campus, chasing squirrels and the best belly rubs! Have fun with some new B-A-L-L-S, courtesy of the Oregon Ducks!”
The Duck also showed Herbstreit a framed photo of itself and former “GameDay” analyst Lee Corso, who retired in August.
“Awwww, that’s great,” Herbstreit told The Duck. “You’re his favorite. You’re my favorite, too. I love you.”
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