In a heartfelt announcement, Lee Corso confirmed that he will retire from ESPN’s “College GameDay” this August, marking the end of a remarkable journey that began back in 1987. For nearly 40 years, Corso has been a fixture in college football broadcasting, captivating generations of fans with his unique flair and infectious enthusiasm.
Reflecting on his long tenure, Corso expressed deep gratitude: “My family and I will be forever indebted for the opportunity to be part of ESPN and College GameDay for nearly 40 years. I have a treasure of many friends, fond memories, and some unusual experiences to take with me into retirement.” As he approaches his 90th birthday on August 7, Corso’s legacy in the sport is firmly established, thanks in part to his memorable catchphrases and the iconic headgear picks that have become synonymous with his name.
The headgear segment, which first debuted in October 1995 during a game at Ohio State, has become a hallmark of Corso’s time on the show. With an impressive record of 286-144 in his 430 selections, Corso has donned everything from team helmets to quirky mascot heads. Who can forget the time he channeled the Fighting Irish leprechaun or his playful impersonations of historic figures like James Madison and Benjamin Franklin? His adventures have even included a memorable motorcycle ride with the Oregon Duck mascot and an unforgettable moment holding a live baby alligator while making his pick for Florida. Let’s not forget his lighthearted duel with pop star Katy Perry at The Grove in Oxford—a true testament to his ability to blend sports and entertainment seamlessly.
Corso, who famously holds a No. 2 pencil during his segments, also had quite the career outside of broadcasting as the director of business development for Dixon Ticonderoga, the company behind those iconic yellow pencils. In a statement, ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro praised Corso’s impact on the sport, noting, “Lee Corso has developed a special connection to generations of fans through his entertaining style and iconic headgear picks. Lee is one of the most influential and beloved figures in the history of college football.”
The buzz around Corso’s impending final broadcast on August 30 is palpable, with ESPN announcing plans for additional programming to celebrate his illustrious career in the days leading up to that momentous weekend.
Despite facing health challenges, including a stroke in 2009 that temporarily impacted his ability to speak, Corso’s resilience brought him back to the show later that same year. Though travel has become more difficult for him in recent times, Corso was present at last year’s national title game in Atlanta, further showcasing his unwavering dedication to the sport.
“ESPN has been exceptionally generous to me, especially these past few years,” Corso remarked. “They accommodated me and supported me. I am genuinely grateful.” His bond with colleagues like Kirk Herbstreit exemplifies the camaraderie that defines their time on the show, with Herbstreit sharing, “Coach Corso has had an iconic run in broadcasting, and we’re all lucky to have been around to witness it.”
As “College GameDay” has enjoyed considerable success under Corso’s influence—garnering nine Emmy awards—it’s clear that he’s been more than just a commentator; he’s an entertainer who has profoundly impacted the evolution of college football’s popularity. Rece Davis, the current host of “College GameDay,” underscored this sentiment, noting how Corso embodies the spirit of coaching through his unwavering support for colleagues and players alike.
Corso’s background as a college and pro football coach—spanning 28 years and including a successful head coaching stint at schools like Louisville and Indiana—further enriches his contributions to “College GameDay.” Known for his time at Florida State, where he also played quarterback and held the school record for career interceptions for two decades, Corso’s history is interwoven with the fabric of college football itself.
As he prepares to leave the spotlight, Lee Corso’s impact on the heart and soul of college football broadcasting will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark, as fans and colleagues alike celebrate the joy and energy he brought into the lives of so many.
