Lee Corso, the beloved face of ESPN’s “College GameDay,” is set to bid farewell to the show this coming Week 1, marking the end of an era for the iconic sports analyst. At 89 years old, Corso has announced that this year’s opening show will be his last. Over the past few seasons, he has taken a step back following a stroke he suffered in 2009, but he continues to bring fans joy with his memorable predictions.
Corso’s predictions are a staple of “GameDay,” and they’ve become famous across college football, known for their charm and unpredictability. His unique style has not only entertained sports fans but has also contributed to the fabric of college football tradition. From the start, Corso has embodied the spirit of the show, with his lighthearted banter and playful manner of expressing his picks.
The tradition of Corso making his predictions in a fun and engaging way began in 1993. During the first “GameDay” episode at a college campus, located in South Bend, Indiana, he donned a Florida State hat to predict that his alma mater would defeat Notre Dame in a highly anticipated matchup. While the Fighting Irish took the win that day, Corso’s Seminoles ultimately celebrated later, claiming the national title after a victorious season finale against Nebraska.
One notable feature of Corso’s picks is his famous mascot headgear. This playful gesture made its debut three years after he first appeared on location when he chose Ohio State to win a game and put on Brutus Buckeye’s head for effect. Since then, the tradition has continued, giving fans something to look forward to each week.
Ohio State is interestingly Corso’s most frequently picked team, with him choosing them in 45 matchups over the years. He often gets creative with Oregon’s mascot, Puddles, adding props to introduce an element of fun and humor to his selections. His enthusiastic engagements with mascots have become a cherished part of the show’s identity.
Corso’s star power isn’t just limited to his predictions; he has also shared the stage with numerous celebrity guests who have added to the excitement. For example, during a 2013 segment featuring Bill Murray as the guest picker, Corso dressed as Chief Osceola, showcasing his flair for the dramatic. In a memorable moment, Murray humorously tackled him, creating laughs all around and delighting viewers.
Another highlight occurred in 2014 when singer Katy Perry made an appearance on the show while Ole Miss faced Alabama. Perry, choosing Ole Miss, and Corso, taking sides with Alabama, turned the segment lively. The duo famously engaged in a playful back-and-forth, where Perry tossed corn dogs at the camera after disagreeing with Corso’s pick. In a twist of fate, Perry’s selection proved correct as Ole Miss secured a 23-17 victory.
As Corso prepares to retire, he returned to Indiana in 2024, resonating deeply with fans and players alike during an emotional homecoming. The Hoosiers, where Corso once coached from 1973 to 1982, were enjoying an undefeated start that season. Corso proudly predicted a win for Indiana over Washington, successfully rallying the crowd and celebrating the team’s revival. Under Corso’s guidance, the Hoosiers had not seen the glory of a winning season since his best year in 1979, making the recent achievements all the more poignant.
Corso’s career has left an indelible mark on college football, transcending mere predictions. His enthusiasm, genuine passion for the game, and the joy he brought to his audience earned him a special place in the hearts of fans everywhere. As he approaches his final appearance, there is a sense of nostalgia among viewers who have followed his journey throughout the decades. Corso’s vibrant spirit and unique approach to sports analysis will surely be missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of sports enthusiasts.
With his final episode drawing near, sports fans are poised to celebrate not just Corso’s storied career, but the joyful moments he shared with viewers and the rich tradition of college football that he helped cultivate.
