Introduction
Lee Corso’s presence on ESPN’s College GameDay became a Saturday morning ritual for millions. Renowned for his eccentric headgear picks, lovable personality, and signature catchphrases like “Not so fast, my friend!”, Corso cemented his legacy as one of college football’s most unforgettable figures. But there’s more to Corso: he’s also intricately tied to a pencil company, and inspired a rising interest in bobbleheads that celebrate his iconic character. This article explores Corso’s headgear ritual, his ties to Bobblehead culture, and his lesser-known but meaningful association with the pencil company Dixon Ticonderoga—all while weaving in his final broadcast and tribute to an era that ends on August 30, 2025.
1. The Tradition of the Headgear Pick
A. The Origin
Lee Corso began the now-legendary headgear tradition on October 5, 1996, in Columbus, Ohio. He donned the Brutus Buckeye mascot head to predict that Ohio State would win—marking the birth of a segment beloved by fans.
B. Numbers Game: Longevity & Accuracy
By his final appearance on August 30, 2025, Corso had made 431 headgear picks, starting and finishing with Ohio State in a full-circle moment. His lifetime pick record stood impressively at approximately 286–144, yielding a winning rate of 66.5%.
C. Final Bow & Legacy
Corso’s last headgear pick occurred during the showdown between No. 1 Texas and No. 3 Ohio State. In a poignant finale, he wore the Brutus Buckeye mask again, choosing Ohio State—bookending a storied tradition in the very place it began.
2. The Bobblehead Phenomenon
A. Why Bobbleheads?
Bobbleheads capture iconic figures in poseable form—perfect for commemorating beloved personalities. Lee Corso, with his animated expressions and trademark headgear, naturally inspired the creation of bobblehead collectibles.
B. Signing Off in Style
While there’s no widely publicized official bobblehead release tied to his final broadcast, the passion of fans and memorabilia collectors suggests such a tribute could emerge—especially given how bobbleheads are invested with nostalgia and the charm Corso embodied.
3. Pencil Company Connection: Dixon Ticonderoga
A. Inside Scoop: More Than Just a Spokesman
A surprising but fascinating part of Corso’s story is his role in the pencil industry. For decades, he has served as director of business development at Dixon Ticonderoga, the iconic pencil company—and yes, he literally keeps an office among the “pencil-pushers”.
B. Symbolism in Lead and Legacy
This affiliation adds a symbolic layer: Corso was always “penciling in” bold opinions on College GameDay—and his roles echo metaphors of writing the narrative of college football each week, one headgear pick at a time.
4. Retirement: The End of an Era
A. Final Tap-In
On August 30, 2025, at age 90, Corso signed off from College GameDay after nearly four decades—his career stretching from its 1987 inception to an emotional farewell in Columbus.
B. A Show of Tribute
The finale featured tributes from colleagues, family, and fans. Notables like Bill Belichick, Charles Barkley, and long-time partner Kirk Herbstreit offered heartfelt messages. Corso even appeared in a tuxedo, encapsulating the blend of humor and sophistication that made him iconic.
C. Legacy of Laughter and Mentorship
Beyond the entertainment, Corso was a mentor—especially to Herbstreit—helping shape the culture of football broadcasting with authenticity and candor.
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