Why is an elephant the mascot of University of Alabama Crimson Tide football team?
The most distinctive of Alabama’s traditions are almost always associated with football. The nickname “Crimson Tide” originated with the 1907 Iron Bowl. Auburn, heavily favored to win, was forced to accept a tie with Alabama after a hard-fought game. Describing the game, one sportswriter described the offensive line as a “Crimson Tide”, in reference to their crimson jerseys. * UA’s mascot is an elephant called “Big Al.” The name was chosen in the late 1970s in a campus-wide contest. * The “Million Dollar Band” holds the distinction of appointing the first ever female college marching band director, Kathryn Scott, who led the band from 1984 until her retirement in 2002. * On the evening before the homecoming football game, a pep rally is held on campus at which a bonfire is ignited. * The day of homecoming, a parade is held. * Before the start of each home game, a video feed featuring famous plays from Alabama history along with the voice of Paul “Bear” Bryant is played.
