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Nick Saban to make headgear picks? Former coach weighs in on future of Lee Corso’s iconic segment
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Nick Saban understands what Lee Corso has meant to so many college football fans. Over the years, Corso endeared himself as one of the prominent figures in the sport for his role on ESPN’s “College GameDay.”
The former head coach and longtime host has long presided over the GameDay desk every Saturday morning in the football season. It has since been announced that he will retire after one final broadcast to jumpstart the 2025 season, meaning fans will get to see just one more headgear pick in a segment that was a staple for many.
During his trip to the Regions Tradition Pro Am last week, Saban was asked if he would eventually replace Corso as the person to make headgear picks on Saturday mornings. Many have wondered if the segment will retire with Corso or if it will be handed off to someone else.
However, Saban currently has no interest in assuming that mantle.
“I hope not,” said Nick Saban during an appearance on the “Rick Burgess Show.” The host even admitted he could not envision Saban fulfilling that role, which Corso has held for decades.
“I don’t either,” responded Saban, “but that’s probably not my decision.”
Regardless of whether or not the headgear segment continues, Corso’s retirement will certainly be the end of an era. For now, Saban and the rest of the crew get one more broadcast to look forward to.
“He’s gonna be on one more show with us, which we all look forward to. Just a great guy, and great for the game of college football,” said Saban. “Has been great for a lot of fans for a lot of years. I think the tradition of him putting the mascot helmet on at the end of every show is something that everybody looks forward to.”
For what it’s worth, co-host Rece Davis was vocally adamant about not letting anyone attempt the headgear pick after Corso retires. He claimed he would have to “tackle anyone that tries to do a headgear pick” and would “fight very hard not be overruled” on his opinion.
Now, we at least know Saban will not be campaigning to take over the gig.
Paul Harvey lives in Atlanta and covers SEC football.
