Former IU head coach Lee Corso receives ESPYS tribute, as 'College GameDay' farewell continues

Lee Corso put on his famous headgear during the ESPYS on Wednesday night at Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The former longtime college football head coach was receiving a tribute as his farewell from ESPN's "College GameDay" continued.

Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, and Pat McAfee took the stage during the first hour of the 2025 ESPYS to offer thoughts on how Corso has impacted their journey and lives.

“My goal on TV was to bring a smile to everybody's face. I hope I have done that,” Corso said on stage at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles

“This is a unique opportunity we have to weave him into the evening and really begin the process of sending him off with full honors,” ESPN’s president of content Burke Magnus said. “To get him there in person to acknowledge all of his contributions and what he’s meant to both the company and sports, but more importantly the fans, we just think it’s a fitting way to kick off his departure.”

Corso, who will turn 90 in August, announced earlier this year that his final season in 2025. His final appearance as a full-time cast member of ESPN’s College GameDay on August 30 in Columbus, Ohio.

After that, Corso’s legendary 38-year career in television will come to a close, marking the end of an era in college football.

Columbus was the site of his first headgear pick on Oct. 5, 1996. Corso has gone with the Ohio State Buckeyes 45 times in headgear picks over the years, more than any other team.

Coach Corso coached the Indiana Hoosiers football program from 1973-1982. He will not only be missed by our Indiana Hoosier community but college football fans across the whole entire globe.