Kirk Herbstreit is a well-known sports analyst and commentator, famous for his work with ESPN and Prime Video. While he is a public figure in the sports world, his wife, Alison kirk herbstreit wife, tends to stay out of the spotlight. Despite this, she plays a crucial role in his life, supporting him through his career and raising their four children together.
This article will provide an in-depth look at Alison Herbstreit, her background, her relationship with Kirk, and their family life.
Who Is Alison Herbstreit?
Alison Herbstreit, formerly known as Alison Butler, is best known as the wife of kirk herbstreit wife. However, she has her own identity beyond being the wife of a famous sports analyst. She was a cheerleader at Ohio State University and has been a devoted mother to their four sons.
She is also known for her privacy, rarely making public appearances or engaging in social media, unlike many other spouses of public figures.
How Did Kirk and Alison Herbstreit Meet?
Kirk and Alison met while they were both attending Ohio State University. Their love story began in college, where Kirk was a quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes from 1989 to 1993, and Alison was a cheerleader. Their mutual love for sports and Ohio State played a big role in bringing them together.
Over the years, their bond has only grown stronger, as they have celebrated more than two decades of marriage and built a family together.

Alison Herbstreit’s College Days as a Cheerleader
Alison was an active student at Ohio State University and was part of kirk herbstreit the cheerleading team. As a cheerleader, she supported the Buckeyes from the sidelines and was part of the team in 1993.
Her involvement in college athletics made her an excellent partner for Kirk, who was deeply immersed in football at the time. Their shared experiences at Ohio State helped them build a strong connection that has lasted for decades.
Kirk and Alison’s Marriage and Family Life
Kirk and Alison have been married for over 20 years. Despite Kirk’s busy schedule as a football analyst, Alison has played a vital role in keeping their family together and ensuring that their children have a stable and supportive environment.
The couple has four sons: Jake, Tye, Zak, and Chase. All four of them have shown interest in football, just like their father.
Here’s a bio table for Kirk Herbstreit and his wife, Alison:
Name | Kirk Herbstreit | Alison Herbstreit |
---|---|---|
Full Name | Kirk Christopher Herbstreit | Alison Herbstreit (née Butler) |
Born | August 19, 1969 | Unknown |
Birthplace | Centerville, Ohio, USA | Unknown |
Occupation | Sports Commentator, Analyst | Homemaker, Former Cheerleader |
College | Ohio State University | Ohio State University |
Relationship Status | Married to Alison Herbstreit | Married to Kirk Herbstreit |
Children | Jake, Tye, Zak, Chase | Jake, Tye, Zak, Chase |
Pets | 3 dogs (Peter, Theo, Mitch) + late dog Ben | 3 dogs (Peter, Theo, Mitch) + late dog Ben |
Social Media | Active on social media (Instagram, Twitter) | No public social media presence |
Notable Facts | ESPN College Football Analyst, Former QB at OSU | Former Ohio State cheerleader, Supports OSU |
Residence | Nashville, Tennessee (previously Ohio) | Nashville, Tennessee |
This table covers basic details about both Kirk and Alison Herbstreit, summarizing key aspects of their personal lives. Let me know if you need any adjustments!
Meet Their Four Sons: Following in Their Father’s Footsteps
Kirk and Alison’s children have all pursued football in one way or another:
- Jake Herbstreit – One of their twin sons, Jake initially played for Clemson University but later transferred.
- Tye Herbstreit – The other twin, Tye, also played for Clemson before moving on.
- Zak Herbstreit – Zak followed in his father’s footsteps and joined Ohio State as a tight end.
- Chase Herbstreit – The youngest, Chase, is currently in high school and plays as a quarterback.
Despite their father’s legacy at Ohio State, the boys have chosen different paths, making their own names in the world of football.
Where Have Kirk and Alison Lived?
Kirk and Alison initially lived in Ohio, where Kirk was deeply connected to the Ohio State Buckeyes. However, in 2011, the couple moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to escape constant criticism from Ohio State fans.
In 2021, they temporarily moved back to Ohio so that their youngest son could attend school there. Despite moving around, the Herbstreits remain deeply connected to their Ohio roots.

Alison’s Private Life: Why She Stays Out of the Spotlight
Unlike many spouses of celebrities, Alison prefers to live a private life. She does not have public social media accounts, and Kirk also rarely shares details about their personal lives.
This privacy allows Alison to focus on their family without the constant attention that comes with being married to a public figure.
Alison and Kirk’s Love for Dogs
The Herbstreit family are not just sports lovers—they are also dog lovers. They have owned several golden retrievers over the years. Their dog, Ben, became a fan favorite, often seen with Kirk at work and even making appearances on TV.
Sadly, Ben passed away in November 2024 after a long battle with leukemia. Kirk shared a heartfelt tribute to Ben, showing just how much their pets mean to the family.
Kirk Herbstreit’s Thoughts on His Wife
Despite being a private couple, Kirk has spoken about his wife in a few interviews. In a 2009 interview with Columbus Monthly, he expressed deep gratitude for Alison’s support and understanding.
“My wife is such a blessing,” he said. “She’s so understanding of my schedule. I don’t know how she does it. I have no idea.”
His words highlight how much he appreciates Alison’s sacrifices and dedication to their family.
Alison’s Role as a Mother
As a mother of four boys, Alison has had a huge role in shaping their lives. Raising a family with an often-absent husband due to his work commitments is not easy, but she has managed to do it with grace.
Kirk has publicly acknowledged how much she has done for their children, often expressing his gratitude on special occasions like Mother’s Day.
Final Thoughts on Alison Herbstreit
Alison Herbstreit may not be in the public eye like her husband, but she plays a critical role in their family. From her days as an Ohio State cheerleader to becoming a dedicated mother and wife, she has remained a strong and supportive figure.
Her decision to stay private has allowed her to focus on her family, and Kirk has always been appreciative of her sacrifices. Together, they have built a beautiful life centered around love, football, and family.
Here are five short “Frequently Asked Questions” (FAQs) for the article about Kirk Herbstreit and his wife, Alison:
- How did Kirk Herbstreit meet his wife, Alison? Kirk and Alison met during their college years at Ohio State University, where Alison was a cheerleader, and Kirk was the quarterback.
- How many children do Kirk and Alison Herbstreit have? Kirk and Alison have four sons: Jake, Tye, Zak, and Chase.
- Where do Kirk and Alison Herbstreit live? While they initially lived in Ohio, they moved to Nashville, Tennessee, in 2011, but have also returned to Ohio temporarily for their children’s education.
- What is Alison Herbstreit’s role in the family? Alison is a homemaker and has supported her family while managing the hectic schedule of her husband, Kirk, and their four children.
- Do Kirk and Alison have any pets? Yes, they have three dogs named Peter, Theo, and Mitch, and they recently mourned the loss of their beloved dog, Ben.