In a saga that seemingly refuses to fade, the contentious relationship between ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit and Florida State Seminoles football fans continues to simmer.
Stemming from the Seminoles exclusion from the college football playoff last season, tensions have remained high, with accusations hurled at Herbstreit for allegedly influencing the playoff committee’s decision.
Herbstreit and Fowler reaction to undefeated FSU getting left out of the playoffs pic.twitter.com/s082SkhR6V
— Henry (@seminole4life22) December 3, 2023
The controversy erupted when the undefeated Seminoles were left out of the four-team playoff, a decision partly attributed to the season-ending injury of FSU quarterback Jordan Travis.
Fans were quick to point fingers at Herbstreit, alleging bias and undue influence in advocating for other teams’ inclusion over the Seminoles.
Kirk Herbstreit to FSU fans after this Georgia blowout pic.twitter.com/NmXtmFZm30
— Andy Milonakis 4 Pres (@DrZazaBongRips) December 30, 2023
Months later, as spring football unfolds, Herbstreit found himself once again in the crosshairs of Seminoles supporters.
Responding to a photo shared by Herbstreit of his four golden retrievers, a fan commented: “Do you have any human friends or all just dog?”
🚨 | ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit went on an absolute TIRADE today on Twitter, calling all FSU fans who question their team's exclusion part of a "despicable lunatic fringe".
In his 350-word manifesto about why the Noles were excluded, Kirk claims that Alabama, Texas, Georgia, & even… pic.twitter.com/bWITJgqkPL
— Blue Bloods Bias (@bluebloodsbias) December 13, 2023
“Ya know I’ve been taking personal shots from guys like you for months,” Herbstreit clapped back. “I know there’s nothing I can say that will satisfy you but I would like to respond…”
“Just want you to know I’m sorry we had a disagreement about teams at the end of the year. I’ve never been a guy that tries to intentionally upset fans with my comments – I’ve always tried to be very professional and respectful to everyone with my thoughts.”
“I do a lot of prep and just give my thoughts. If you agree or disagree it’s all good. Nothing has ever been personal towards any team or conference. Just give my opinion.”
Ya know I’ve been taking personal shots from guys like you for months. I know there’s nothing I can say that will satisfy you but I would like to respond. Just want you to know I’m sorry we had a disagreement about teams at the end of the year. I’ve never been a guy that tries to… https://t.co/SddzrAHrAo
— Kirk Herbstreit (@KirkHerbstreit) March 23, 2024
“I hate that some FSU fans are making it so personal. I have respected the Noles for decades and will continue to do so.”
“I understand the venom towards me – I really do – I wish FSU nothing but the best and can’t wait to see Coach Norvell and his squad this Fall.”
“No matter how many of you come at me on here I’ve got nothing but love for the Noles brand and wish you the best always,” he concluded.Â
FSU fans in Kirk Herbstreit’s replies for the last 3 months: pic.twitter.com/2eAhKh4kYn
— Sidelines – Bama (@SSN_Alabama) February 12, 2024
What are your thoughts on the Florida State vs. Herbie feud?
Did Herbie’s lengthy statement put this whole matter to bed once and for all?
While we’re on the subject – should the Noles have made the playoffs last season???