ESPN’s College GameDay is drawing criticism after analyst Kirk Herbstreit made remarks on air that many interpreted as body-shaming. The controversy began when Herbstreit included a college student in a joke during the broadcast. Viewers quickly reacted, accusing the longtime commentator of “fat shaming” and calling the comments inappropriate.
The backlash highlights the growing awareness of body image in sports coverage, with fans expressing disappointment on social media platforms. Herbstreit’s joke has since become a flashpoint, fueling broader discussions about respect and sensitivity in sports media.
Fans Accuse College GameDay Analyst Kirk Herbstreit of ‘Fat Shaming’ During Broadcast
Herbstreit stirred up controversy during Saturday’s broadcast of ESPN’s “College GameDay,” with many fans criticizing his on-air remarks as inappropriate and mocking. The longtime analyst, who has been part of the program since 1996, drew attention during Pat McAfee’s weekly Kicking Contest, where an Oklahoma student attempted a high-stakes field goal.
The challenge offered $200,000 to freshman accounting major Jack Daugard if he could successfully convert a 33-yard kick in front of a live audience. As the crowd watched, Herbstreit predicted the ball would sail into the stands rather than through the uprights.
He was proven wrong when Daugard narrowly cleared the crossbar and secured the prize money. Following the kick, Herbstreit made a comment that quickly sparked backlash.
“The scouting report didn’t have that going through,” he said on the broadcast before adding, “You son of a b****.”
We did not have Kirk Herbstreit calling this kid a “son of a bitch,” on our scouting report, either. pic.twitter.com/i8IpOkcUIc
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) September 6, 2025
The remark was delivered jokingly, but many viewers perceived it as mocking the student’s appearance, with some accusing Herbstreit of body-shaming.
On social media, fans reacted with frustration.
“McAfee been rubbing off on him the past year or so. He starting to give less f***s everyday,” one user wrote.
McAfee been rubbing off on him the past year or so. He starting to give less f*cks everyday.
— Buckeye HQ (@RealisticBuck) September 6, 2025
Another added, “Pat is rubbing off on him. Pretty soon the whole crew is gonna be out funneling beers and dropping F bombs.”
Pat is rubbing off on him. Pretty soon the whole crew is gonna be out funneling beers and dropping F bombs
— Jeremy (@Jer_3_W) September 6, 2025
“Between this and McAfee saying “sh!t” they need to put this show on a delay,” another quipped.
Between this and McAfee saying “sh!t” they need to put this show on a delay.
— Michael Moats (@MichaelRMoats) September 6, 2025
Another Added, “Kirk’s Statement Later Today: “I was obviously not talking about the young man in question and was clearly speaking to Peter, my dog, about his mother.”
Kirk’s Statement Later Today: “I was obviously not talking about the young man in question and was clearly speaking to Peter, my dog, about his mother.”
— PlayBallCoach (@PlayBallCoach) September 6, 2025
Many suggested Herbstreit’s behavior reflected the influence of co-host Pat McAfee, whose brash style has dramatically shifted the tone of College GameDay since his arrival. Saturday’s outburst came in the middle of the live broadcast, raising additional questions about ESPN’s editorial standards and the boundaries of humor in sports coverage.
Although Herbstreit’s position on the show remains secure after nearly three decades, the incident reignited discussion about the role of broadcasters in setting an example for viewers.
As of now, ESPN has not issued a formal response. Still, the episode has fueled broader debate about whether the network is encouraging a looser, edgier style to compete with rivals such as FOX’s partnership with Barstool Sports.
