Sherrone Moore, head coach of the Michigan Wolverines, might still be reflecting on the disappointment of losing out on recruiting Miller Moss. However, a recent development has brought a silver lining to his recruiting efforts and garnered unexpected praise from a notable figure—former Ohio State quarterback and current College GameDay host, Kirk Herbstreit. The reason? Moore decided to give an opportunity to Herbstreit’s son, Chase Herbstreit, who committed to Michigan on December 8, despite being a lifelong Ohio State fan and the son of a Buckeye legend. This development has stirred conversations and strong emotions among fans.
Chase Herbstreit, a 3-star prospect and ranked No. 128 among quarterbacks in the 2025 class, grew up immersed in Ohio State’s culture, idolizing his father’s alma mater. Kirk Herbstreit, a captain for the Buckeyes in 1992, led the team to an 8-3-1 record that included a victory over Michigan. Despite this strong family connection, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day did not extend a scholarship offer to Chase, a decision that left him considering other programs. Ultimately, Chase found an opportunity with Ohio State’s biggest rival, Michigan, where Moore extended a preferred walk-on spot, believing in the young quarterback’s potential.
On the OutKick podcast, Kirk Herbstreit addressed his son’s decision and Ohio State’s approach to recruiting. He explained, “This particular recruiting class was tough for those three-star guys trying to find where they fit. It put coaches in difficult positions.” He also praised Moore’s willingness to believe in Chase, saying, “For Sherrone Moore to step up and say, ‘Hey, we want to give Chase an opportunity. We believe in this kid. He’s a guy we can develop and who will buy into our program,’ meant a lot. Chase had to jump at that opportunity.”
Chase Herbstreit has been recognized for his solid grasp of offensive schemes, strong arm, and proficiency with intermediate passes, but these skills were not enough for Ohio State to extend a scholarship. Instead, Chase was considered for a preferred walk-on role with the Buckeyes. However, with no concrete offer forthcoming, he chose to explore other opportunities. Kirk Herbstreit remarked, “Ohio State can’t recruit everyone. So kids have to look elsewhere, and for Chase, that meant Ann Arbor.”
The decision to join Michigan has drawn backlash from fans, many of whom criticized Chase and his father. Some fans felt that Chase betrayed his Buckeye roots, while others questioned whether Kirk had influenced his son’s decision. Kirk clarified that he remained neutral, emphasizing his son’s autonomy in choosing the Wolverines. “I’m neutral,” Kirk stated, adding that his primary concern was Chase finding a place where he felt appreciated.
Despite the criticism, Kirk has no hard feelings toward Ryan Day or Ohio State for not pursuing his son more aggressively. As a longtime Buckeye, Kirk remains connected to the program and expressed excitement about his role in covering their upcoming College Football Playoff game at the Horseshoe. Reflecting on his ties to Ohio State, Kirk shared, “Ohio State and the Big Ten will always have a special place in my heart. Anytime I get a chance to call an Ohio State game, it’s a thrill, especially now.”
The Herbstreit family’s story highlights the complexities of recruiting, legacy, and personal choice in college football, sparking debates about loyalty, family ties, and career development. For Chase Herbstreit, the opportunity to forge his path with Michigan marks the beginning of a new chapter, even as he carries the weight of his father’s Buckeye legacy.