Kirk Herbstreit faced significant backlash from Florida State (FSU) fans during ESPN's College GameDay in Dublin, Ireland, following the Seminoles' stunning loss to Georgia Tech in the 2024 Aer Lingus College Football Classic. Herbstreit had previously criticized FSU, asserting they did not deserve a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) last season, which fueled long-standing animosity from fans. Despite attempts to mitigate the situation, including bringing out FSU's athletic director, Herbstreit was met with boos and critical signs, reflecting persistent resentment. Georgia Tech's last-minute 44-yard field goal sealed a memorable victory, compounding FSU's woes as they prepare to face Boston College. Former Alabama coach Nick Saban defended Herbstreit, asserting neither he nor Herbstreit influenced FSU's exclusion from last year's CFP. The incident underscores ongoing tensions and conspiracy theories regarding ESPN's alleged bias towards the SEC.