Kirk Herbstreit’s On-Air Jab at adidas Uniforms Sparks Social Media Debate

A casual comment from a top ESPN analyst ignited a fiery conversation about college football aesthetics. During the December 20 College Football Playoff broadcast, Kirk Herbstreit took an unexpected shot at the adidas uniforms worn by the Miami Hurricanes. His remark quickly spilled over to social media, putting the sportswear giant in an awkward spotlight during what should have been a brand-safe event.The incident highlights the persistent criticism of adidas’s football apparel designs. It also underscores the intense scrutiny uniforms face in the modern era of college sports.

Herbstreit’s Comments and The Immediate Fallout

The moment was brief but pointed. As Miami played Texas A&M, Herbstreit observed, “Even these Miami guys make those adidas uniforms look good, which is tough to do.” Co-hosts on the ESPN set quickly jumped to the brand’s defense. Herbstreit himself attempted to walk the comment back.The damage, however, was done. The clip spread rapidly online. Many Miami fans on social media actually agreed with the sentiment. This reaction points to a long-standing nostalgia for the team’s iconic Nike uniforms from the early 2000s.According to Sports Illustrated’s Kicks on SI, Miami was a Nike school for nearly three decades. The university switched to adidas in 2015 under a massive 12-year agreement. That deal is set to run through 2027, meaning a uniform supplier change is not imminent.

Adidas’s Big Bet on South Florida Football

Despite the criticism, adidas has made a major strategic investment in the region. The University of Miami serves as one of the brand’s flagship NCAA programs. Furthermore, adidas sponsors all 41 public high schools in Miami-Dade County.The brand’s influence extends to the professional ranks there, too. Miami Dolphins stars Tua Tagovailoa and Tyreek Hill are prominent adidas athletes. The company has also invested heavily in its NIL program, supporting thousands of student-athletes nationwide.These moves show adidas is committed to competing with Nike in American football. The brand’s recent uniform designs for other programs have received more positive feedback. Yet, the Miami Hurricanes’ kits remain a stubborn point of contention among fans and commentators.

Texas A&M’s Playoff Dreams End in Controversial No-Call Against Miami

The incident shows that in today’s media landscape, even an offhand remark can become a major branding discussion. For adidas, winning over the Miami faithful remains an ongoing challenge.

Thought you’d like to know

What exactly did Kirk Herbstreit say about the uniforms?

During the ESPN broadcast, Herbstreit said, “Even these Miami guys make those adidas uniforms look good, which is tough to do.” He later softened his criticism after reaction from his colleagues.

How did fans react to Herbstreit’s comment?

Surprisingly, many Miami fans on social media agreed with the critique. There is a strong fan sentiment that prefers the team’s older Nike uniform designs from their championship era.

How has adidas responded to the criticism?

Adidas has not issued a formal statement. The brand’s social media account for US football later posted a message of support for the Hurricanes with the caption “Hushed the doubters.”

What is the “Air Jordan problem” mentioned?

It refers to a viral moment where unreleased SoleFly x Air Jordan 3 sneakers in Miami colors were worn by celebrities on the Hurricanes’ sideline. This created buzz for a rival brand during an adidas-sponsored event.

Can Miami change its uniform supplier soon?

No. The University of Miami is locked into a long-term partnership with adidas that runs through the 2027 season. Any change would be several years away.

Trusted Sources: Sports Illustrated, ESPN.