At 89 years old, Lee Corso continues to defy expectations, both for his longevity and his impact on college football broadcasting. Born on August 7, 1935, Corso has been a staple on ESPN's *College GameDay* since its inception in 1987, captivating fans with his larger-than-life personality and iconic headgear predictions. Despite age and health challenges, Corso's enduring presence on the show remains a testament to his passion for the game and unmatched charisma.
Before his broadcasting fame, Lee Corso had a rich career in football. As a defensive back at Florida State University, he laid the groundwork for a future in coaching. Over the years, Corso held head coaching roles at institutions like Maryland, Louisville, and Indiana. He even dabbled in pro football, leading the Orlando Renegades in the United States Football League (USFL). These roles not only highlighted his strategic acumen but also fostered his ability to break down the complexities of the game—an essential skill for his next chapter as a broadcaster.
When *College GameDay* premiered on September 5, 1987, it was Lee Corso’s infectious energy that helped set the tone for the show’s success. He's the only original crew member still analyzing college football and remains a fan favorite, thanks to his signature flamboyance and entertaining commentary. Of course, no mention of Corso would be complete without his famous mascot headgear tradition, introduced in 1996, where he dons the headpiece of his game-day pick, much to fans' delight.
In 2009, Corso suffered a stroke that impaired his speech—a setback that would have sidelined most broadcasters. But Corso worked tirelessly to recover, leaning on his quick wit and determination. Nevertheless, health concerns have occasionally sidelined him, with missed shows in recent seasons raising discussions about his future on *College GameDay*. Yet, even amid these challenges, Corso has delivered spirited performances, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the show.
As Lee Corso approaches his 90th birthday, one question looms: how much longer will he remain on *College GameDay*? While some fans argue it may be time for retirement, others insist that Corso should stay on as long as he desires. One thing is certain—his legacy on the show and in college football as a whole is secure.
Role | Years Active | Notable Achievements |
---|---|---|
Player | 1953–1956 | Florida State University; Defensive Back |
Coach | 1958–1985 | Head Coach: Maryland, Louisville, Indiana, USFL’s Orlando Renegades |
Broadcaster | 1987–Present | Only Original Crew Member of *College GameDay* |
Do you think Lee Corso should continue gracing us with his exuberant personality every Saturday morning, or do you believe it’s time for the headgear to rest? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear how Corso has impacted your love for college football!
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Lee Corso is married to Betsy Youngblood. The couple has been together since 1957, sharing a long and committed relationship. They are proud parents of four children and have been blessed with 10 grandchildren.
At Florida State University, Lee Corso was known for his prowess on the football field, earning the nickname "Sunshine Scooter" due to his impressive speed. Playing as a defensive player, he set a remarkable school record for the most career interceptions, highlighting his athletic talent during his college days.
#CollegeRoommates #FSUAthletes #FSUHistory. Surprisingly, Lee Corso and Burt Reynolds were indeed college roommates during their time at Florida State University in the early 1950s. Both were key players on the football team, with Corso excelling on both offense and defense.
The exact salary of Lee Corso is not publicly disclosed; however, it is in line with top-tier sports analysts. Typically, an ESPN analyst earns around $54,000 annually, but experienced and renowned figures like Corso are anticipated to earn significantly more.
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