College Football: Introducing the Pre-Season NCAA All-Mascot Team

While squads have already reported to training camp, the 120 teams of NCAA Division I football are prepping for one of the most exciting seasons to date with the ubiquitous switching of conferences and no clear favorites for the BCS title game.

However, there is someone working in the shadows prepping for the upcoming year. Someone daydreaming of forcing crowds of drunk college students into a crazed frenzy. Someone whose preseason workout consists of hopping and dancing in an plush outfit that pushes the temperature way past 100 degrees.

It is a simple truth. With every great team, there is a great mascot.

Here is a list of the ten mascots, who should be named to a preseason NCAA All-Mascot team.

Big Al of Alabama

The SEC is known for having some of the largest fan bases in the country. The Crimson Tide might just be one of the most formidable.

To counteract such a fierce team known for its fierce defense, the Crimson Tide have a cute, fluffy elephant named Big Al as their mascot.

But don’t let appearances fool you. Deep down inside, Big Al is as menacing as any Crimson Tide fan. He returns to the field ready to defend their National Title.

The Oregon Duck

Known across college football for his daring beat-down of the Houston Cougar, the Oregon Duck is easily one of the craziest mascots in college football. This guy can be compared to Daffy Duck on acid.

While Oregon prepares to defend its PAC-12 title, the Oregon Duck is ready for another season of dominance. With school spirit through the roof with the catchy Supwitchugirl tune “I Love My Ducks,” this mascot will lead the Ducks into the BCS.

Bevo of Texas

The long-horned calf has long been a symbol for Texas. The Big 12 powerhouse has recently fallen from the top of college football, but Bevo is not worried.

While the Longhorns strive for NCAA relevance again, Bevo is preoccupied with causing a ruckus in front of his fans…his beef-eating fans…

Sparty of Michigan State

Of all the fake-human mascots, Sparty is by far the least unattractive. Fierce and proud to be a Michigan State Spartan, he can be seen on the football field prancing around like he owns the place.

Other than the relatively short skirt (armor?), he is a formidable figure, a sheer image of strength. He is a mascot I would stay away from.

Traveler of USC

Before I get blasted by UCLA fans, let me argue my case here. Before every game, Traveler rides out with a Trojan warrior mounting him, a symbol of the rich football history of the school.

Traditions like this are awesome and make the non-plush mascot a top in college football.

Mike the Tiger of LSU

Mike the Tiger is no stranger to national television. Of many college mascots, he might be the most renowned for his consistent appearances in national championships and huge SEC matchups.

Cute, but with a sharp set of teeth, Mike leads the way for a Tiger squad that hopes to continue battling Alabama for an SEC title.

Sparky of ASU

Don’t worry it’s not Satan. He just might be worse…

Sparky is ruthless. While ASU continues to strive to become a contender in the PAC-12, Sparky has focused his efforts on keeping the notorious party school entertained. The flashy uniform updates were just a teaser for the squad. Sparky is the real deal.

Albert and Alberta Gator of Florida

The two gators have been vacationing in the Florida sun all summer. Although disappointed by Tim Tebow’s debut in a Jets uniform, they both enjoyed the Gator clomps done by US sprinters in the Olympics.

But, now it’s back to business. Directing organized gator clomps throughout the UF crowds is no easy job. Their place on the All-Mascot team is much deserved.

Bucky Badger of Wisconsin

If you thought Honey Badgers didn’t care, then meet Bucky.

His permanent scowl radiates his harsh temperament. On Saturdays, there is no time for fun for Bucky. It’s either a win or the worst day ever. There is no in-between for this badger.

Rocky D. Bull of South Florida

Rocky D. Bull is an intimidating mascot. He can break his opponents with his sheer strength and demeanor.

In the mascot world, he is not one to mess with. As USF rises as a program, his confidence grows and grows, as well as his ability to perform. Pretty soon, he could be a Mascot of the Year candidate.

Honorable Mentions

The Notre Dame Leprechaun – fell out of the rankings with a public display of drunkenness arrest in the offseason.

The Mountaineer – gun control reform brought his stock down.

Otto the Orange – had an unfortunate encounter with a juice squeezer in the off-season.

Stanford Tree – it's a tree...