"Headgear Hero: Celebrating Lee Corso This Season"
This week, let's celebrate a college football icon: Lee Corso! He's much more than just a headgear picker; he's a legend. This article explores Corso's impact, his iconic moments, and his lasting legacy.
Who is Lee Corso? The Man Behind the Headgear
Lee Corso is a former college football coach and a longtime analyst for ESPN's College GameDay. Born August 7, 1935, in Lake Mary, Florida, Corso played football, baseball, and basketball at Florida State University. After coaching stints at Louisville, Navy, and Indiana, he transitioned to broadcasting. His infectious enthusiasm, encyclopedic knowledge of the game, and, of course, the headgear, have made him a beloved figure in college football.
The Iconic Headgear Selection: A Lee Corso Trademark
The headgear selection is, without a doubt, Lee Corso's most recognizable and beloved tradition. Every Saturday morning during College GameDay, Corso dons the headgear of the team he predicts will win the featured game. This simple act has become a cultural phenomenon, drawing massive crowds and generating countless social media posts. The anticipation leading up to the pick, the dramatic reveal, and the celebratory cheers (or groans) are all part of the spectacle.
How did it all start? It was a spur-of-the-moment decision during a broadcast from Ohio State in 1996. Corso grabbed Brutus Buckeye's head and put it on, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Lee Corso's Impact on College GameDay and ESPN
Lee Corso has been a cornerstone of College GameDay since its inception in 1987. His chemistry with fellow analysts like Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, and Rece Davis is palpable, creating an entertaining and informative viewing experience. Corso's passion for the game is infectious, and his ability to connect with fans is unparalleled. He brings a unique blend of humor, insight, and genuine love for college football to the broadcast each week.
Beyond the headgear, Corso provides valuable analysis and commentary. He offers a historical perspective on the game, drawing upon his coaching experience and deep understanding of college football traditions.
Overcoming Adversity: Lee Corso's Stroke and Continued Passion
In 2009, Lee Corso suffered a stroke that significantly impacted his speech and mobility. However, his determination to continue doing what he loves - talking college football - is truly inspiring. While his delivery may be different now, his passion and knowledge remain as strong as ever. His continued presence on College GameDay is a testament to his resilience and unwavering love for the sport.
Lee Corso Quotes and Memorable Moments
Lee Corso has provided many memorable quotes over the years, often sprinkled with his signature wit and folksy charm. Here are a few gems:
- "Not so fast, my friend!" - A classic Corso catchphrase used when disagreeing with a colleague's prediction.
- "That's why they play the game!" - An acknowledgement of the unpredictable nature of college football.
- His passionate defenses of his alma mater, Florida State.
Beyond the quotes, there are countless moments of Corso interacting with fans, sharing stories, and simply enjoying the atmosphere of college football Saturdays. These moments are what make him so endearing to audiences nationwide.
The Future of Lee Corso and College GameDay
While Lee Corso has slowed down somewhat in recent years, his presence on College GameDay remains invaluable. He is a living legend and an integral part of the show's identity. As long as he is able, fans can expect to see Corso making his headgear selections and sharing his love for the game. College GameDay, with Corso at the helm (or rather, wearing the headgear), continues to be a Saturday morning ritual for millions of college football fans.
Q&A: Lee Corso Edition
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Q: What is Lee Corso's most famous contribution to college football?
- A: His headgear selection on ESPN's College GameDay.
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Q: What schools did Lee Corso coach at?
- A: Louisville, Navy, and Indiana.
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Q: When did Lee Corso suffer his stroke?
- A: 2009.
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Q: What makes Lee Corso so popular?
- A: His passion, enthusiasm, knowledge of college football, and the iconic headgear tradition.
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Q: What is Lee Corso full name?
- A: James Lee Corso.
This week, let's raise a glass (or wear some headgear) to Lee Corso, a true icon of college football.
Keywords: Lee Corso, College GameDay, Headgear, ESPN, College Football, Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, Rece Davis, Not So Fast My Friend, Football Analyst, Coaching Career, Stroke Recovery, Florida State University, Football Tradition, GameDay Tradition.
Summary Question and Answer: This article explores the life, career, and impact of Lee Corso, focusing on his role on College GameDay and his famous headgear selection; key questions answered include Corso's coaching career, the origin of the headgear tradition, and his health challenges.