A Legendary Departure

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Few broadcasting legends get the chance to retire on their own terms, basking in the tributes and love from fans and colleagues. Lee Corso is one of the lucky ones, marking a memorable farewell on Saturday.

In a stunning twist, Corso's final appearance with ESPN's "College GameDay" comes as Ohio State, the reigning national champions, prepares for a showdown against top-ranked Texas.

Celebrating a Career of Entertainment

Since announcing his retirement earlier this year, Corso has been showered with accolades, including a standing ovation at the ESPY Awards in July and heartfelt goodbyes from fans during his transit in Orlando.

Kirk Herbstreit, who has shared the set with Corso since 1996, expressed mixed emotions: This weekend is about celebrating him and all he’s meant to us and to the sport.

From Humble Beginnings to Iconic Moments

At 90 years old, Corso has been a staple of "GameDay" since its inception in 1987. He has turned pregame rituals into entertainment, famously stating, Football is just the vehicle. It’s entertainment, sweetheart.

Rece Davis, host of "GameDay," also emphasized the blessing of honoring Corso while he’s still vibrant and engaged, acknowledging the rarity of such farewells in the industry.

Full Circle: Ohio State and Corso's Legacy

This week's broadcast marks Corso's 26th visit to Columbus, bringing his journey full circle. It was here, back in 1996, that he pioneered his beloved headgear prediction segment, donning the iconic Brutus Buckeye mascot before a game against Penn State.

A Track Record of Winning Predictions

With an impressive 66.5% success rate on his headgear picks (286-144), Corso has become a beloved figure, surpassing even his coaching record at Louisville, Indiana, and Northern Illinois.

His final prediction will unfold live from Ohio Stadium, with the event being broadcast across all ESPN platforms and even Fox Sports.

Legacy Lives On

Ohio State’s coach, Ryan Day, reflected on Corso’s significant impact, noting that his presence for this last mascot game means a great deal to everyone involved.

As the show evolved—moving from ESPN studios to lively locations around the country—Corso helped cultivate an environment where fans could feel the pulse of college football, making every Saturday an exhilarating experience.

Farewell to a Broadcast Pioneer

Though Corso will no longer grace Saturday mornings with his presence, the legacy he leaves behind is palpable. His trademark blend of entertainment and sports analysis reshaped the landscape of pregame shows, proving you can have fun while discussing the game.

As anticipation builds for his last day in the limelight, producer Jim Gaiero hinted that Corso may have a few surprises up his sleeve. Even as he steps away, the indelible mark he made on college football and its fans will remain a cherished part of the sport.