The college football season is only days away from kicking off, but next Saturday carries extra significance beyond the first games. After nearly four decades, Lee Corso will make his last appearance on ESPN’s College GameDay. Corso, the 90-year-old former coach with a history at Louisville and Indiana, has been a beloved figure on the show since 1987, known for his colorful personality and memorable headgear picks. His final segment will take place ahead of the high-profile matchup between the No. 1 Texas Longhorns and No. 3 Ohio State Buckeyes.
LeBron James Honors Lee Corso’s Impact on College Football
As fans and colleagues prepare to say goodbye to Corso, NBA superstar LeBron James stepped forward with a touching tribute. Shared through ESPN’s social media platforms, a video compilation featured heartfelt messages from coaches, analysts, celebrities, and Corso’s family, highlighting his influence on and off the camera. The Los Angeles Lakers forward posted on Instagram, showing his emotional connection to Corso’s legacy and the tradition of College GameDay. Though James is celebrated worldwide for his basketball achievements, he connects deeply with college football enthusiasts who cherish Saturday mornings spent watching the show. Known as an Ohio State fan, James is especially hopeful that Corso will select the Buckeyes’ mascot in his final headgear pick.
The Tradition and Accuracy of Corso’s Headgear Predictions
Though the headgear segments may appear lighthearted, Lee Corso’s predictions have a remarkable success rate. ESPN reports that Corso has an overall record of 286 wins and 144 losses in his picks since beginning in 1996 with the Buckeyes beating Penn State. His ability to anticipate game outcomes has made the ritual a beloved element of College GameDay Sunday mornings. James, aligning with the passionate Ohio fan base, likely shares enthusiasm for Corso’s insights and hopes for a victorious selection in the upcoming Texas vs. Ohio State game.
Reflecting on a Storied Career and Enduring Legacy
Lee Corso reflected on his long tenure in a statement released in April, expressing gratitude for the experiences and friendships he gained through nearly 40 years with ESPN. He said,
“My family and I will be forever indebted for the opportunity to be part of ESPN and College GameDay for nearly 40 years,”
and added,
“I have a treasure of many friends, fond memories and some unusual experiences to take with me into retirement.”
His vibrant presence and genuine enthusiasm will be deeply missed by fans and colleagues, but the countless memories he created will endure. As the college football community prepares for this bittersweet farewell, Corso’s influence remains a significant chapter in the sport’s history.