CUE SPECULATION: Lee Corso's final College GameDay could be Texas vs. Ohio State

USA Today

23-05-2025

CUE SPECULATION: Lee Corso's final College GameDay could be Texas vs. Ohio State Despite the game being broadcasted on FOX, College GameDay on ESPN has still broadcasted before from Big Noon Kickoff games.
Legendary ESPN analyst Lee Corso is set to retire after nearly four decades on College GameDay, with his final broadcast scheduled for August 30, 2025. While speculation is swirling that Corso's last show will be at the marquee match up between Ohio State and Texas, not everyone is convinced that will be the case.
Corso, who turns 90 this summer, has been an iconic figure on College GameDay since joining the program in 1987. His tradition of donning mascot headgear for his game picks began in Columbus, Ohio, in 1996, when he first wore the Brutus Buckeye head. With the Buckeyes hosting the Longhorns in a rare non-conference matchup to open the season, many see this as a fitting full-circle moment for Corso's farewell.
ESPN has yet to formally announce the location for Corso's final show, fueling speculation among fans and analysts. The Ohio State-Texas game is widely considered the favorite, given its national appeal and Corso's personal history with both programs. 'It would be a major upset if College GameDay headed anywhere but Ohio State for Corso's final show,' noted one analyst.
However, some, including college football insider Brett McMurphy, have suggested that ESPN could choose another high-profile Week 1 matchup, such as Alabama at Florida State or LSU at Clemson, both of which also carry significant storylines and fan interest. Corso is a Florida State alum, adding a personal connection to the Seminoles' opener against Alabama.
While the Texas vs. Ohio State game will be broadcasted on FOX. ESPN's 'College GameDay' has appeared on site at games featured as Fox's 'Big Noon Kickoff,' including the high-profile Penn State-Ohio State matchup in October 2024. Both pregame shows broadcasted live from Penn State's campus ahead of the noon kickoff.
Regardless of the location, Corso's final appearance will mark the end of an era for college football fans. His entertaining style, memorable catchphrases, and iconic headgear picks have made him one of the sport's most beloved personalities. ESPN has announced plans for special programming to celebrate Corso's career in the days leading up to his farewell broadcast.
As the college football world awaits ESPN's official decision, the possibility of Corso's last pick coming at Ohio State-Texas remains the sentimental favorite, one that could see Corso dawn the beloved Hook'em headgear one last time.