Lee Corso is retiring on ‘College GameDay’ after 38 years, with hundreds of hat picks.

On April 17, 2025, Lee Corso announced he will retire from ESPN’s “College GameDay” after 38 seasons, with his final appearance scheduled for Saturday, August 30, 2025, to kick off Week 1 of the college football season . Now 89 (turning 90 on August 7), Corso expressed heartfelt gratitude for the friendships, memories, and “unusual experiences” gained over nearly four decades . His departure marks the end of an era for Saturday college football, closing the chapter on one of the longest‑tenured personalities in sports broadcasting .

A Storied Career: From Coach to College GameDay Icon

Before becoming a television legend, Corso spent 28 years as a head coach at the college and professional levels, leading programs at Louisville (1969–72), Indiana (1973–82), Northern Illinois (1984), and the USFL’s Orlando Renegades (1985) . He joined ESPN in 1987 as one of the original analysts of its then‑new Saturday GameDay show, becoming the only remaining on‑air personality from the inaugural broadcast . Over the years, Corso combined his deep football knowledge with a folksy charm that resonated with multiple generations of viewers .

Birth of a Tradition: The Headgear Picks

Corso’s most enduring hallmark began on October 5, 1996, prior to the Ohio State–Penn State game, when he donned Brutus Buckeye headgear to signal his pick—a playful ritual that quickly became a show staple . Armed with his trusted No. 2 pencil, Corso would question his fellow analysts’ choices and then theatrically place the chosen school’s mascot head on his own head to forecast the day’s marquee matchup .

Counting the Wins: Record and Legacy

By the time of his retirement announcement, Corso had made 430 mascot selections, posting a career record of 286–144 and cementing his pick segment as one of college football’s most‑watched moments each week . His uncanny blend of bravado and humor turned headgear night into a ritual that transcended sports, creating watercooler moments and social media buzz for decades .

Tributes from Colleagues and Fans

Longtime co‑host Kirk Herbstreit, who joined GameDay in 1996, lauded Corso as a mentor and “second father,” praising his impact on both the show and the sport at large . ESPN veteran Chris Fowler, Corso’s counterpart from 1990–2014, called him “a born entertainer and singular television talent” whose courage and resilience inspired millions . On social media, ESPN contributor Stephen A. Smith recognized Corso’s indelible contributions, while College GameDay host Rece Davis highlighted how Corso’s personality “set the trend for generations” of college football coverage .

Honors and an Award‑Winning Broadcast

During Corso’s tenure, College GameDay earned nine Sports Emmy Awards in the Most Outstanding Studio Show – Weekly category, with the program nominated once again for the 2025 season . His presence helped elevate the show from a studio discussion to a fan‑driven event, drawing record crowds on campus and consistently topping ratings for college football pre‑game programming.

The Path to Retirement: Health, Resilience, and Reflection

In 2009, Corso suffered a stroke that left him unable to speak for a time, forcing him to curtail his travel; yet he returned to the set later that year and continued to broadcast with undiminished enthusiasm . As ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro noted, Corso’s “entertaining style and iconic headgear picks” fostered a special connection with fans across generations . His longevity on air stands as a testament to his resilience and passion for the game.

Final Show and Special Programming

Corso will deliver his final headgear selection on August 30, 2025, at a yet‑to‑be‑announced location, capping off 38 seasons of spirited predictions . ESPN has planned special programming in the days leading up to his final appearance, celebrating Corso’s contributions with highlight reels, interviews, and behind‑the‑scenes retrospectives .

The Future of College GameDay

In recent seasons, GameDay has expanded its roster with new voices like Alabama’s Nick Saban and former NFL star Pat McAfee, joining stalwarts such as Rece Davis, Desmond Howard, and Kirk Herbstreit . As Corso steps away, the program faces the challenge of preserving its blend of analysis, entertainment, and tradition for a new era of fans.

Conclusion

Lee Corso’s retirement marks the close of a broadcasting odyssey defined by innovation, authenticity, and a deep love of college football. From his pioneering headgear picks to his warm rapport with co‑hosts and viewers alike, Corso leaves a legacy that will echo every Saturday morning in the fall. While the GameDay set will look different without his trademark antics, his influence will endure—proof that in the world of sports media, there truly is only one Lee Corso.