“Circle of life!”: CFB fans heartwarmingly welcome Kirk Herbstreit’s dog Peter following Ben’s death

Kirk Herbstreit, ESPN’s well-known College GameDay host, grieved the loss of his beloved golden retriever, Ben. Just a week after Ben's death, Herbstreit introduced a new friend in Peter, a golden retriever already stealing the spotlight.

Peter joined Herbstreit on the College Gameday set, filling a void and continuing a heartwarming tradition. He announced Peter’s debut on the ESPN show last weekend

“Look at this guy!!! Making himself right at home,” Herbstreit said, posting a short clip on X as Peter was welcomed by his mates.

Fans welcomed Peter, seeing him as a tribute to Ben’s legacy.

One fan commented, “Circle of life!”

One fan tweeted, "That's amazing! Glad Peter is comfortable!"

Another fan joked, "He’s looking good. If Pete can handle Pat then you have a winner!"

Another said, "Love this!!!! GO PETER!

"That's adorable, love the confidence!" one more fan tweeted.

Another commented, "Haha, what a champ! He’s made himself right at home!"

Herbstreit’s busy football schedule didn’t stop for grief. Peter quickly became part of the action as ESPN College GameDay traveled to Athens, Georgia, for the big matchup between the No. 6 Tennessee Volunteers and the No. 11 Georgia Bulldogs.

Herbstreit even shared a photo of Peter proudly posing on the famous “Rocky Steps” in Philly, captioning it with:

“He has been in training (with Ben and the other 2 boys) since he moved into the house last December. Here he is today getting ready for the game. Took him over to the 'Rocky Steps'!”

Kirk Herbstreit called Ben "America's best friend"

Herbstreit shared the heartbreaking news about Ben last week. The golden retriever was a familiar face to college football fans. He affectionately dubbed Ben as America’s best friend. Herbstreit tweeted:

“Thank you again for all the outpouring of love for our Ben. I can’t tell you how much it means to me and my family. He wasn’t just my best friend—he was America’s best friend ❤”

Ben, 10, was battling leukemia and lymphoma. His health struggles began in March, leading to surgeries and chemotherapy. Despite moments of hope, including an incredible recovery over the summer, his condition worsened in October.