35 Facts About Lee Corso

Early Life and Education

Lee Corso, a beloved figure in sports broadcasting, has a rich history that many fans might not know about. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his early years and education.

1. Born on August 7, 1935, in Cicero, Illinois, Corso's parents were Italian immigrants.
2. His family moved to Miami, Florida, when he was 10 years old.
3. Corso attended Miami Jackson Senior High School, where he excelled in both football and baseball.
4. He earned a scholarship to Florida State University (FSU) due to his athletic prowess.
5. At FSU, Corso played quarterback for the Seminoles and was also a standout in baseball.
6. He graduated with a degree in physical education in 1957.

Coaching Career

Before becoming a TV personality, Corso had a significant coaching career. His experiences on the field shaped his future in sports broadcasting.

7. Corso began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Florida State University.
8. He then served as an assistant coach at Maryland under head coach Tommy Nugent.
9. In 1969, he became the head coach at the University of Louisville.
10. Corso led Louisville to their first-ever bowl game victory in the 1970 Pasadena Bowl.
11. He later coached at Indiana University from 1973 to 1982.
12. During his tenure at Indiana, Corso led the Hoosiers to their first bowl victory in the 1979 Holiday Bowl.
13. He also had a brief stint as head coach at Northern Illinois University in 1984.
14. Corso served as the head coach for the Orlando Renegades in the United States Football League (USFL) in 1985.

Transition to Broadcasting

Corso's transition from coaching to broadcasting was seamless, and he quickly became a fan favorite on ESPN's College GameDay.

15. Corso joined ESPN in 1987 as an analyst for College GameDay.
16. His energetic personality and catchphrases made him a standout on the show.
17. He is famous for his tradition of donning the mascot head of the team he predicts will win.
18. Corso's first headgear pick was Brutus Buckeye, the mascot of Ohio State, in 1996.
19. He has been a part of College GameDay for over three decades.
20. Corso's catchphrase, "Not so fast, my friend!" has become iconic among college football fans.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond his professional life, Corso has a rich personal life filled with interesting hobbies and passions.

21. Corso married his wife, Betsy, in 1957. They have four children together.
22. He is an avid golfer and often participates in charity golf tournaments.
23. Corso suffered a stroke in 2009 but made a remarkable recovery and returned to College GameDay.
24. He is actively involved in various charitable organizations, including the American Heart Association.
25. Corso has a passion for cooking and often shares his favorite Italian recipes with friends and family.
26. He enjoys spending time with his grandchildren and often takes them to college football games.

Awards and Honors

Corso's contributions to sports and broadcasting have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career.

27. In 2010, he was inducted into the Florida State University Athletics Hall of Fame.
28. Corso received the National College Football Awards Association's Contributions to College Football Award in 2011.
29. He was honored with the Disney Spirit Award in 2013 for his courage and perseverance.
30. In 2019, Corso was inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame.
31. He has received multiple Sports Emmy Awards for his work on College GameDay.
32. Corso was awarded the Amos Alonzo Stagg Award by the American Football Coaches Association in 2020.

Fun Facts and Trivia

To wrap things up, here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Lee Corso that might surprise you.

33. Corso has appeared in several commercials, including ones for Home Depot and Dr Pepper.
34. He has a cameo in the 1998 film "The Waterboy," starring Adam Sandler.
35. Corso is known for his extensive collection of mascot heads, which he keeps in a special room at his home.

Lee Corso: A Legendary Figure

Lee Corso's impact on college football is undeniable. From his days as a player and coach to his long-standing role on ESPN's College GameDay, Corso has become a beloved figure in sports. His signature headgear picks, infectious enthusiasm, and deep knowledge of the game have made him a fan favorite. Beyond the screen, Corso's resilience in overcoming health challenges and his dedication to the sport inspire many. His contributions have shaped how fans experience college football, blending entertainment with insightful commentary. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, Corso's presence adds a unique flavor to the game. As we celebrate his legacy, it's clear that Lee Corso is more than just a commentator; he's a true icon in the world of college football.