Lee Corso gets brutally honest about ESPN retirement
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Lee Corso, cherished for his iconic mascot headgear picks on “College GameDay,” finds retirement to be far from the leisurely dream many imagine. Despite the presumed appeal of sunny days and relaxation, Corso would rather be back in the vibrant chaos of college football Saturdays.

In an interview with WESH in Florida, the 90-year-old candidly expressed his feelings about stepping away from the spotlight. “Lousy. I hate it,” Corso admitted. “I can’t watch ‘College GameDay.’ I can’t get used to it. I’m not working anymore. I used to fly all over. It sucks.”

Corso’s sentiments are understandable given his deep-rooted connection to the sport. For 38 years, college football wasn’t just part of his career—it was part of his identity. He became a familiar face to audiences when he joined “College GameDay” at its inception in 1987, and in 1996, he began his famous tradition of donning the mascot heads, starting with a show at Ohio State.

Corso had been with the show since its 1987 inception, and began his famous headgear segment in 1996 during a show at Ohio State.

His final show on Aug. 30 aired from Columbus, and he correctly picked the reigning champion Buckeyes to beat then-No. 1 Texas to finish 287-144 in his selections, per ESPN.

“My family and I will be forever indebted for the opportunity to be part of ESPN and College GameDay for nearly 40 years,” Corso said in a statement after ESPN announced his final show in April. “I have a treasure of many friends, fond memories and some unusual experiences to take with me into retirement.”

His final show this year provided tender moments for Corso and his colleagues to savor, with the former coach wearing a tuxedo for the occasion.


ESPN analyst Lee Corso wearing a black suit and bow tie, with an American flag lapel pin, leaving the field after his final pick.
Lee Corso during his final show in August. AP

The “College GameDay” crew honored him by wearing headgear featuring Corso’s face, and ESPN aired a lengthy segment with fans, coaches, players and others thanking Corso for his legendary run.

Before he became a member of the media, Corso spent 15 years coaching Louisville (1969-72), Indiana (1973-82) and Northern Illinois (1984), compiling a 73-85-6 record.


Pat McAfee hugs Lee Corso on the set of ESPN College GameDay.
Pat McAfee hugs Lee Corso during his final show. Adam Cairns/USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images

He starred at Florida State in the 1950s, earning AP All-America honors in 1956 and entering the school’s Hall of Fame in 1978.

Corso held the school’s interceptions record for more than two decades.

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