What was alabama's mascot before the elephant?

Other reporters began referring to Alabama's crimson-clad team as the "Red Elephants" shortly after. During the 1979 season, after a little pleading with Coach Bear Bryant to jump on board with an on-field mascot, Big Al made his first appearance alongside the Crimson Tide. read more

Strupper and other writers would continue to refer to Alabama as the "Red Elephants," the "red" as a nod to the players' crimson jerseys, and the name stuck throughout what became a national championship season and beyond. Despite the nickname, it would be nearly five decades before Alabama recognized the animal as its official mascot. read more