An era concluded with a poignant Buckeye tribute as Lee Corso, the iconic figure of ESPN’s “College GameDay,” delivered his final headgear pick on Saturday, August 30, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio. This Fond Farewell marked the end of his 38-year run, leaving an indelible mark on college football Saturdays for fans across the nation. Corso’s last selection, made at the age of 90, fittingly honored his “first love,” the Ohio State Buckeyes, as they prepared to face off against the No. 1 ranked Texas Longhorns, as reported by multiple news outlets including ESPN.
A Full-Circle Moment
The setting for Corso’s final act was Ohio Stadium, a place of significance for both him and “College GameDay.” In a nostalgic callback to his first-ever headgear pick in 1996, also in Columbus, Corso donned the Brutus Buckeye mascot head. According to ESPN, this choice symbolized the deep connection he forged with the university and its fans. “This is one of the easiest picks I’ve ever made. Gimme my first love,” Corso exclaimed, as reported by The Times of India, triggering a wave of cheers from the Ohio Stadium crowd. The selection underscored his long-standing affinity for the Buckeyes and the city that embraced him.
Tributes and Celebrations
Corso’s farewell was a celebration of his remarkable career and the impact he had on the sport. His “College GameDay” colleagues, including Kirk Herbstreit, Rece Davis, Desmond Howard, and Pat McAfee, paid heartfelt tributes to his unique blend of humor, passion, and insightful analysis. Herbstreit, a co-host for many years, hailed Corso as “the greatest entertainer in the history of sports television,” as noted by Sports Illustrated. The tributes highlighted Corso’s ability to connect with audiences on a personal level, making him a beloved figure in the college football world.
Ohio State’s Touching Homage
Ohio State demonstrated their appreciation for Corso’s support throughout the years. Coach Ryan Day presented him with a special helmet adorned with a leaf for each of the 45 times he had previously picked the Buckeyes to win. This gesture, reported by Eleven Warriors, showcased the respect and admiration the university held for Corso. Adding to the emotional atmosphere, the Ohio State marching band performed a special tribute by spelling out “CORSO” on the field, a visual spectacle that moved many in attendance, as shown on YouTube videos of the event.
Fan Appreciation
The fans in attendance made their voices heard, expressing their love and gratitude for Corso. Signs bearing his iconic catchphrases dotted the stadium, and chants of “We love Lee” reverberated throughout the stands. This outpouring of affection underscored the deep connection Corso had forged with the college football community over his 38-year career, a point emphasized by OutKick and Saturday Tradition in their coverage of the event.
End of an Era
Corso’s retirement marks the end of an era for “College GameDay” and college football broadcasting. His career, which began in 1987 after a 28-year coaching stint, saw him become the last remaining original member of the show. His departure represents a significant transition for the program and the sport, as highlighted by AP News. His signature headgear tradition, which started in 1996, became an integral part of the Saturday morning ritual for college football enthusiasts. Over the years, Corso made 431 picks, amassing an impressive record of 286-144, according to data available on Wikipedia.
Retiring the Headgear Tradition
In a move that signifies the end of an era, ESPN confirmed that the headgear tradition will officially retire with Corso. This decision, reported by Front Office Sports, underscores the unique and irreplaceable nature of Corso’s contribution to the show. The headgear picks were more than just predictions; they were a performance, a moment of theater that captured the passion and excitement of college football. With Corso’s departure, the tradition comes to a close, leaving a void in the pregame show landscape.
Corso’s Enduring Legacy
Lee Corso’s contributions to sports television and his enduring legacy as a charismatic and influential figure in college football will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come. His passion, humor, and insightful analysis endeared him to millions of fans, making him a true icon of the sport. As noted by Athlon Sports, his impact extends beyond the television screen, shaping the way fans engage with and appreciate college football. His absence will be felt on Saturday mornings, but his legacy will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come.
Lee Corso’s retirement signifies more than just the departure of a beloved personality; it marks the end of an era defined by his unique brand of entertainment and unwavering passion for college football. His final headgear pick, a heartfelt tribute to Ohio State, served as a fitting culmination to a remarkable career, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to resonate within the sport for years to come.
