Kirk Herbstreit Goes on Offense Against Ohio State Fans

"I was critical of some of the things they say to some of the players on social media. Here's my problem: I talk to (quarterback) Will Howard. I talk to Ryan Day. I hear the pain that they feel, and they can't say anything--I can. I'll take the bullets."

Herbstreit, as he noted in this clip, has been with ESPN for 29 years. At a certain point, he's been used to being in the public eye, working as a conduit between the sport and the public. Players and coaches can't publicly speak about their private worries because it would paint the fan base badly. 

Herbstreit chooses his words carefully here. He clarifies that he's frustrated with a "portion" of Ohio State fans and that he was critical of "some of the things" they say to "some of the players."

But this sort of measured response doesn't always read perfectly when speaking to thousands or millions of people. The players and coaches know that, so giving Herbstreit the latitude to speak on their behalf is necessary.