College GameDay is set to feel different with the return of Lee Corso in 2024. Corso, a cornerstone of the pregame show since its launch in 1993, has a long history in football that predates his broadcasting career.
Born in 1935, Corso celebrated his 89th birthday on August 7, just ahead of the 2024 college football season. He returned to the College GameDay set on August 31, marking a significant moment as he resumed his role during his 89th year, coinciding with the 32nd season he has been on air. His well-known headgear predictions have become iconic, and his familiar voice has been part of numerous memorable college football moments.
Corso’s game day contributions finish with his pivotal final pick around noon Eastern time, which signifies the start of the day for many fans.
Lee Corso began his journey on the field rather than in front of the camera. Playing for Florida State from 1953 to 1957, he excelled as both quarterback and cornerback. Corso earned the nickname “Sunshine Scooter” due to his swift playing style and set a Florida State record with 14 career interceptions—a record that endured for over two decades. During his time at FSU, he also shared a room with actor Burt Reynolds.
After obtaining multiple degrees at Florida State, Corso transitioned into coaching, starting with a graduate assistant position in 1958. He began coaching quarterbacks at Maryland and later took on defensive backs at Navy. Corso then moved to head coach roles, first with the Louisville Cardinals from 1969 to 1972 and later with the Indiana Hoosiers from 1973 to 1982. He concluded his college coaching career at Northern Illinois in 1984 and ventured briefly into professional football, coaching the Orlando Renegades in the USFL during the 1985 season before the league folded.
Corso’s college coaching record stands at 73-85-6, with tenures at various institutions throughout his career.
In 1987, Corso joined ESPN, and in 1993, he debuted on College GameDay, where he has partnered with Kirk Herbstreit for over three decades, delivering insights and analysis to fans. He was also featured in EA Sports’ popular college football video game until 2011.
Away from the spotlight, Corso maintains a quiet life in Lake Mary, Florida, where he has been married to his wife, Betsy, since 1957.