Lee Corso retires at 89: What to know about the ESPN’s College GameDay legend
ESPN College GameDay host Lee Corso. Credit: Ted S. Warren/AP, File
At 89 years old, Lee Corso has officially made his final appearance on ESPN’s College GameDay, closing out an era that has spanned more than three decades. The beloved broadcaster, known for his energetic personality and legendary mascot headgear picks, received an emotional farewell from fans, coaches, and colleagues alike during his last show.
Lee Corso’s Age and Career Milestones
Born on August 7, 1935, Corso’s journey through football and broadcasting has been nothing short of historic. At 89, he stands as one of the oldest and longest-tenured personalities in sports television.
Before joining ESPN, Corso spent years as a college football coach, leading programs at Louisville, Indiana, and Northern Illinois. His deep knowledge of the game made him a natural fit for broadcasting when he joined College GameDay in 1987. Over time, his humor, sharp analysis, and trademark traditions helped make the show a Saturday morning staple for millions of fans.
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The Final GameDay Appearance
Corso’s farewell came during the opening weekend of the 2025 college football season, with the show broadcasting live from Ohio State. True to form, the analyst closed out his run with one last iconic headgear pick, choosing Ohio State to win against Notre Dame.
The moment was met with cheers from the crowd and heartfelt tributes from the ESPN crew, including longtime colleagues Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, and Rece Davis, who praised Corso for shaping the show’s identity. Fans in attendance also held up signs thanking him for years of entertainment and unforgettable Saturday mornings.
A Beloved Figure in College Football
Corso’s impact goes far beyond his on-air predictions. Known for his catchphrase “Not so fast, my friend!” and his lighthearted banter, he became a symbol of college football culture.
Over the years, his health challenges, including a stroke in 2009, raised concerns about his ability to remain on the show. Yet, Corso continued to inspire fans by returning to his chair each fall, proving his resilience and love for the sport. His consistency helped College GameDay become not just a sports program, but a tradition for fans across the country.
Legacy and What’s Next
At 89, Lee Corso leaves behind an unparalleled legacy. His blend of humor, knowledge, and showmanship redefined how fans experience college football coverage. For ESPN, replacing his presence will be nearly impossible, as he became the heart of GameDay.
While Corso is stepping away from the broadcast desk, his influence will continue to be felt each Saturday when fans tune in to the show he helped build. His final pick may be in the books, but his contributions to the sport ensure that his name will forever be associated with college football Saturdays.
