As Lee Corso gets ready to bid farewell to “College GameDay” after an incredible 38-year run since its inception in 1987, there’s a bittersweet note in the air, especially from his family. Corso’s journey in the college football landscape has been nothing short of iconic, but the choice of venue for his final episode has left his son, Dan, feeling a tinge of disappointment.
The decision was a tough one for ESPN: should they host the show at Sunshine Scooter’s beloved Florida State, or take their talents to Columbus for the highly anticipated clash between the Longhorns and Buckeyes in Week 1? As it turns out, the network opted for the latter, a choice that, while logical from a ratings perspective, didn’t quite resonate with the Corsos.
“As a family of Seminoles, yes, it was disappointing,” Dan Corso admitted. “But at the same time, it will be fun to watch his last ‘GameDay’ and headgear in Columbus.” It’s a testament to the deep-rooted loyalty that the Corso family has to Florida State, despite the overarching spectacle of college football that exists around them.
Interestingly, “College GameDay” hasn’t aired from Tallahassee since the Jameis Winston era back in 2014, though it has made a notable 36 appearances over the years, with the Seminoles winning 17 of those matchups. This history resonates deeply, underscoring Lee Corso’s unwavering support for FSU and the immense pageantry tied to the sport. “He was consistent with his love for FSU and the pageantry and tradition of college football,” Dan noted proudly, emphasizing how his father’s presence on the show has been a loving reminder of the sport’s entertainment value for nearly four decades.
Dan shares a warmth for the preparation that goes into an episode of “GameDay.” “Lots of preparation, discussion, production meetings with producers and other ‘GameDay’ talent,” he said. “And early bedtime on Friday night, definitely much earlier than the other ‘GameDay’ talent.” Those behind-the-scenes insights give fans a glimpse into the dedication the team has poured into making the show a staple of the college football season.
And let’s not forget, as Corso approaches his 90th birthday during his last month on the show, we’re reminded of the incredible ride it’s been—not just for him, but for the millions of fans who have tuned in, laughed, and celebrated college football’s unique spirit alongside him. With a legacy that transcends just the numbers and stats, Lee Corso has solidified his place as a beloved figure in the hearts of college football fans. As he prepares to sign off, we can only hope the next chapter is just as exciting and full of passion for the game he has embodied for so long.
