The LSU community was rocked when it learned of the death of former LSU football player Ruffin Rodrigue Jr following a heart attack on Tuesday evening. Rodrigue was a 2-time SEC champion who later opened a popular restaurant, Ruffino’s, with locations in Baton Rouge and Lafayette.

Condolences flew in from all corners of the Tigers’ football family, including head coach Ed Orgeron. Offering up his words of support as well was Kirk Herbstreit, a visitor to Ruffino’s whenever he was in Baton Rogue co-hosting “College GameDay” or serving as a co-commentator on ESPN and ABC’s Saturday night broadcasts.

“Our crew, for as long as I can remember, always made a stop to Ruffino’s EVERY trip to Baton Rouge,” Herbstreit tweeted on Wednesday. “He was always so welcoming and such a gracious host. Just devastating news. I’m so very sorry for his passing.”

Rodrigue was 53 years old. He leaves behind a wife and 2 children.