After 38 unforgettable seasons, Lee Corso is set to make his final headgear pick on ESPN’s College GameDay. This much-anticipated moment will take place on Saturday, August 30, coinciding with the kickoff of the 2025 college football season. The show’s destination will be unveiled later this spring, but one thing remains certain: this will be a sendoff worthy of a broadcasting legend.
Corso, who will celebrate his 90th birthday in August, has been an integral part of College GameDay since its inception in 1987. His very first headgear selection occurred on October 5, 1996, when he donned the iconic Brutus Buckeye mascot head in Columbus, Ohio. Throughout his illustrious career, Corso has made 430 headgear picks, with an astounding 45 of those supporting Ohio State, making it a beloved tradition among college football fans.
In his own words, Corso remarked, “My family and I will be forever indebted for the opportunity to be part of ESPN and College GameDay for nearly 40 years.” His gratitude shines through as he reflects on the friendships, memories, and sometimes bizarre experiences that have colored his time in the spotlight. He also expressed deep appreciation for the support he’s received, particularly noting the generosity of ESPN and his colleagues over the years, especially Kirk Herbstreit, who has been a steadfast friend and ally.
Jimmy Pitaro, ESPN Chairman, echoed the sentiment, stating, “Lee Corso has developed a special connection to generations of fans through his entertaining style and iconic headgear picks.” Corso’s influence on college football and his contributions to the ESPN family have made him a beloved figure, and his final appearance will undoubtedly be a moment of celebration among fans and colleagues alike.
Corso’s journey began after a successful coaching career that spanned 28 years at both the college and professional levels. He joined ESPN in 1987 and has remained the only original College GameDay personality throughout the show’s evolution. Together with fellow hosts, he helped transform College GameDay into a juggernaut that has secured nine Sports Emmy awards.
A pioneer of televised sports, Corso’s career launched into new territory during the show’s first-ever road show on November 13, 1993, when he mesmerized viewers by donning Florida State gear in front of a roaring crowd at the Joyce Center as Notre Dame clashed with the Seminoles. Over the years, Corso’s antics have become legendary, from dancing with the Fighting Irish’s leprechaun to wrestling with stars like Will Ferrell. His catchphrase, “Not so fast, my friend!” remains etched in college football lore, delivered with flair while wielding his trusty Dixon Ticonderoga pencil.
Beyond the antics and on-screen charisma, Corso has crafted a profoundly impactful bond with fans and colleagues, particularly with Herbstreit. Their camaraderie blossomed when Herbstreit joined the show in 1996 and has evolved into a father-son-like relationship, marked by mutual respect and support, particularly after Corso faced health challenges in recent years.
This summer, as College GameDay prepares for another season, fans can expect a heartfelt tribute to Corso during the three-hour show on August 30. This will be his final broadcast. College GameDay will almost certainly be at Ohio State’s Campus that weekend since Texas is facing off against the Buckeyes. As a CFP Semifinal Rematch, it looks incredibly likely that Corso’s career ends in Columbus. While celebrating his remarkable career, the show will also preview the day’s exhilarating matchups.
As a testament to his impact on college football, Corso holds a place in multiple Hall of Fames, including those of Florida State, Louisville, and Indiana. Recognitions such as the Gold Medal from the Florida State Alumni Association and the Contributions to College Football Award from the National College Football Awards Association reaffirm his dedication and influence in the sport.
With Corso’s final headgear pick approaching, it’s a moment to reminisce about the joy and enthusiasm he has brought to fans and the sport itself. As College GameDay gears up for a new chapter post-Corso, his legacy will undoubtedly influence the show and the world of college football for years to come.
