Alabama Football: Why Big Al is the best mascot in college sports

Alabama football has the best mascot in college athletics

There is a lot that separates college sports from the pros. One staple of NCAA athletics is iconic mascots. Whether it’s a live animal, a person dressed up or a costume of any kind, college teams have some iconic mascots. Just like with most things, Alabama football has the best.

In a recent ranking of college mascots, Big Al was ranked 20th. He was placed behind other SEC staples like Aubie, Uga, Smokey and Mike the Tiger. While it was an honor to make the list, Big Al still deserves more respect.

There is a lot that makes a college mascot great. One facet is the history, and this is on Big Al’s side. The concept of an elephant dates back to the 1930s when a reporter told the story of a fan screaming “Hold your horses, the elephants are coming!”

Most mascots are cliche. Lions and tigers and bears have a history of being used in all sports. The concept of an elephant was used to specifically describe Alabama football, and it adds to Big Al’s history.

The beauty of a mascot is that it takes an intimidating team name and creates a friendly persona. While other mascots do this as well, there is something about the cuteness of a silent elephant that shakes his stomach and poses with young fans during games.

Also, the charisma of Big Al is noteworthy. During the intensity of an Alabama football game, fans are still looking around to see what shenanigans he is up to. He’ll do anything from stacking the chearleaders’ megaphones to bodysurfing his way through the student section. He is loved by fans of all ages and demographics. From kids to students to older adults, everyone who loves the Crimson Tide loves Big Al.

With all due respect, I would consider rethinking the rankings and placing Big Al at the top.