Lee Corso receives farewell tribute at the ESPYS
- Lee Corso was honored at the ESPYS as part of his farewell from 'College GameDay'.
- The event included tributes from various analysts and showcased his extensive contributions to sports broadcasting.
- Corso, turning 90 soon, concluded his iconic presence on the show, leaving behind a significant legacy.
On July 17, 2025, Lee Corso, the longtime analyst and former coach, was honored during the ESPYS as he prepares to conclude his celebrated tenure on ESPN's 'College GameDay'. The event took place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, marking a significant moment in sports broadcasting history. Corso, who turns 90 in August, is the last member of the show's original cast and announced earlier this year that his final appearance would coincide with the opening week of the college football season. ESPN's content president, Burke Magnus, emphasized the importance of this tribute in acknowledging Corso's contributions to both the network and the sports community. The recognition included heartfelt comments from fellow analysts Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, and Pat McAfee, who shared their experiences working alongside Corso and highlighted the impact he has had on college football and sports broadcasting. A video tribute also played, showcasing his remarkable journey over the years, featuring memorable moments such as wearing various school mascots while making game predictions. During his time on 'College GameDay', Corso accumulated an impressive record of 286-144 in 430 picks, showcasing both his knowledge and entertaining personality. Despite enduring a stroke in 2009 that affected his speech, Corso remained a beloved figure in the sport, slowly reducing his appearances in recent years but still participating in high-stakes events like the College Football Playoff national title game in January 2025. Corso's unique approach to game coverage, characterized by humor and authenticity, has left an indelible mark on the show's format, contributing to its cultural significance and popularity among fans. Rece Davis, host of 'GameDay', pointed out that Corso played a pivotal role in transforming how college football is presented on television, creating a standard admired and emulated by other sports programs. As his final season approaches, Lee Corso's legacy as a trailblazer in sports broadcasting continues to be celebrated, and his farewell at the ESPYS serves as a fitting tribute to a career that has brought joy and entertainment to countless viewers. The upcoming season of 'College GameDay', set to begin in Columbus, Ohio, will feature Ohio State hosting Texas on August 30, 2025, where Corso will deliver his last predictions, ensuring that his impactful presence in college football will be felt one last time.