Alex Rodriguez Sends 4-Word Message After Lee Corso Makes Devastating ESPN Admission

Saturday mornings will never be the same. Lee Corso’s legendary 38-year run with ESPN’s “College GameDay” came to a tearful end as the 90-year-old broadcasting icon delivered his final headgear pick in Columbus, Ohio. The man who turned “Not so fast, my friend” into college football gospel left millions of fans heartbroken, marking the conclusion of sports television’s most beloved era. The farewell turned heartbreaking when Corso made a raw reflection on mortality during the emotional broadcast struck deep, prompting tributes from across the sports world—including former MLB superstar Alex Rodriguez.

The candid honesty about his health struggles revealed the physical toll of nearly four decades behind the microphone, transforming what should have been purely celebratory moment into something profoundly moving and unforgettable. Corso’s most devastating moment came when he reflected on the overwhelming tributes, admitting to ESPN colleagues his stark thoughts about mortality. “I told Kirk after looking at that (wishes) I felt like I was dead, and it looked like I was watching it from my graveside,” he confessed during an emotional segment. The raw vulnerability in his voice revealed the weight of saying goodbye to a career that defined him, as fans witnessed a broadcasting icon grappling with the finality of his farewell.

Former MLB superstar Alex Rodriguez took to his Instagram story and posted a collage of photos showing their shared moments from ESPNS’s College GameDay show. The pictures depicted them laughing and having fun together with a heartfelt four-word message that said: “Congrats on a legendary career.” Rodriguez’s tribute came as sports personalities across different disciplines recognized the gravity of Corso’s departure. The brevity of his message captured the universal respect Corso commanded, extending beyond college football to reach athletes and personalities across all major sports, who understood the significance of his contributions to sports broadcasting.

Following Corso’s retirement announcement, athletes and personalities across different professional sports flooded social media with tributes to the broadcasting legend. NBA stars joined the outpouring of respect, with Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young uploading a video on his Instagram Story captioned “Last Gameday Ever with Corso!” The cross-sport tributes demonstrated Corso’s influence on college football, as players from MLB to the NBA recognized his role in shaping sports culture and Saturday morning traditions for millions of fans nationwide.

Among all the touching messages, Alex Rodriguez‘s humble tribute to Corso stood out for its heartfelt brevity. But beyond the social media honors, Corso’s final day revealed why legends like Rodriguez felt compelled to pay their respects.

Lee Corso Delivered a Masterclass on His Final Day

Rodriguez’s tribute captured what millions felt watching Corso’s farewell unfold. The emotional tributes from media personalities as well as athletes told only half the story of Corso’s legendary final day. What made his farewell truly magical was how he delivered one last masterclass in showmanship. The 90-year-old icon strutted onto the Columbus set wearing a crisp tuxedo, proving that even in retirement, style remained his signature. His performance that Saturday reminded everyone why College GameDay became must-watch television for millions of fans.

Corso saved his best predictions for last, turning his final picks into pure theater. When facing the marquee matchup between top-ranked Texas and third-ranked Ohio State, emotion guided his choice. “Give me my first love!” Corso declared before dramatically slapping on Brutus Buckeye’s oversized head. His trademark wave and unmistakable grin followed, creating a moment that perfectly captured his infectious energy. The Buckeyes delivered for their biggest fan, knocking off the Longhorns in thrilling fashion.

His alma mater received the same passionate support when he backed Florida State against Alabama. “Florida State is my school, how would I pick against them? Florida State upsets Alabama,” he proclaimed with conviction. The Seminoles stunned the Crimson Tide 31-17, validating Corso’s bold prediction. These weren’t just picks—they were declarations of loyalty that defined his entire broadcasting philosophy.

The day became even more remarkable when every program Corso ever played for or coached secured victories. Maryland, Navy, Louisville, Indiana, and Northern Illinois all won, creating a clean sweep that felt like destiny. His 73-85-6 coaching record never defined him, but his broadcasting legacy transformed College GameDay into college football’s most beloved tradition, making Saturday mornings sacred for generations of fans.