On3 is continuing its rapid expansion in the college football media space with the addition of former Ohio State tight end Zak Herbstreit as a National College Football Analyst. The network announced Monday that Herbstreit will lead a new program, Off Script with Zak Herbstreit, featuring candid conversations with players, coaches, and insiders across the college football landscape.
Herbstreit, a recent graduate of Ohio State University, brings a unique combination of playing experience, coaching insight, and media savvy to his new role. He will also serve as a traveling correspondent for On3, offering on-site analysis from marquee matchups throughout the season.
“Zak has tremendous natural talent and has grown up immersed in college sports,” said Shannon Terry, Founder and CEO of On3. “His ability to connect with today’s college stars will bring a fresh and authentic perspective to the On3 network. He’ll be traveling each week to the biggest games across the country, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at everything that makes Saturdays the greatest day in sports.”
Herbstreit’s journey to the media side comes after a promising playing career was cut short by a heart-related medical condition. Although forced to retire, he remained a fixture within the Buckeyes program, assisting the coaching staff and scout team as a student coach. He was part of Ohio State’s 2024 national championship-winning team and is well-respected by coaches and teammates alike.
The launch of Off Script adds another layer to On3’s growing slate of original programming. The show aims to go beyond highlight reels and rankings, diving into the mental, emotional, and strategic elements of college football directly from those in the arena.
“I’m grateful for the path that led me here, and I’m excited to bring real passion, insight, and a player’s mindset to the content that On3 creates,” said Herbstreit. “There’s so much more to the game than fans see on Saturdays, and I can’t wait to help tell those stories in an authentic way.”
The addition of Herbstreit not only adds a recognizable name with deep ties to the game—his father is longtime ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit—but also a voice that resonates with today’s generation of college athletes and fans. His firsthand experience as a player and coach positions him to offer thoughtful analysis and relatable storytelling at a time when media companies are increasingly investing in talent with on-field credibility.
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