Lee Corso is a beloved figure in college football, known for his lively predictions and the iconic mascot headgear he wears on “College GameDay.” Over the years, Corso has donned headgear from 69 different schools, including the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame and the Stanford Tree. Yet, Brutus the Buckeye, Ohio State’s mascot, is his all-time favorite, worn an impressive 45 times.
As his career winds down, the excitement builds around Corso’s final prediction at Ohio Stadium. ESPN’s “College GameDay” is going all out for this moment. Kirk Herbstreit mentioned the significance of choosing Columbus, reinforcing that this day feels like a storybook ending.
Surprisingly, Corso’s predictions have been quite accurate. He boasts a 66.5% success rate with 286 correct picks out of 430. In contrast, during his coaching days at schools like Louisville and Indiana, his record was less stellar at 73-85-6.
The atmosphere around “GameDay” hybridizes analysis and fun. Corso, alongside figures like Chris Fowler, has made the show a staple for fans. Texas coach Steve Sarkisian praised Corso’s unique blend of insight and entertainment, which energized Saturdays across the nation.
Even after retiring, Corso’s influence will linger. Jim Gaiero, a “GameDay” producer, believes Corso’s ability to mix entertainment with serious football analysis should inspire future shows, even outside sports.
With college football’s viewership in the millions and debates around a potential playoff expansion capturing headlines, Corso’s legacy serves as a reminder of the joy and excitement the sport brings.
For more insights on the importance of sports culture, check out this NPR article on college football’s impact.


















