ESPN college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit became an unexpected fashion storyline on New Year’s Day as rainy, chilly conditions set the tone for College GameDay in Pasadena, California.
The former Ohio State quarterback drew attention throughout the morning as he layered up on set near the Rose Bowl, where Alabama and Indiana are scheduled to meet later Thursday afternoon. With steady rain and gray skies uncommon for Southern California, the weather appeared to catch even a Midwest native off guard.
Herbstreit was spotted cycling through a hat, poncho and additional layers as temperatures dipped and rain intensified. The frequent wardrobe adjustments quickly became a talking point on social media, where college football fans leaned into the moment with humor.
"Kirk Herbstreit looks like your friend who went on vacation, but lost his suitcase, so he has to wear only clothes he’s borrowing from all of his friends," one viewer wrote.
Kirk Herbstreit looks like your friend who went on vacation, but lost his suitcase, so he has to wear only clothes he’s borrowing from all of his friends pic.twitter.com/SBCXHBqLLR
— Ben Koo (@bkoo) January 1, 2026
The playful attention came as the College Football Playoff quarterfinals take center stage on New Year’s Day. In addition to the Rose Bowl matchup between the Alabama Crimson Tide and and Indiana Hoosiers, the schedule also features Oregon vs. Texas Tech in the Orange Bowl and Ole Miss vs. Georgia in the Sugar Bowl.
Kirk Herbstreit is really trying to make this hat work.
— Burghie (@houseofburgh412) January 1, 2026
I don’t see it.
Herbstreit has to wear a rain poncho for all the Buckeye tears pic.twitter.com/Si2N5LLk5P
— jimmy toots (@futtywap) January 1, 2026
For Herbstreit, the weather may have been uncomfortable, but it gave fans an extra moment to talk about before kickoff.
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