Texas Longhorns’ Mascot Bevo Won’t Make Trip to SEC Championship Game Due to Safety Concerns
The Southeastern Conference (SEC) title game will feature two schools with iconic mascots, Texas and Georgia, but only one will be able to bring their beloved animal. The Texas Longhorns’ mascot, Bevo XV, a live Longhorn, will not be attending the game due to safety concerns.
According to the SEC, the issue is related to the narrow sidelines and limited space in Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the venue for the championship game. The conference stated, “When we received the request for Bevo to be on the sideline, our staff looked at several alternatives, including the sideline location. The reality is there is limited sideline space at the stadium. We can’t jeopardize the safety of Bevo or the game participants.”
Bevo, the 15th edition of the Longhorns’ mascot, weighs nearly a ton and has a horn span of 58 inches. The mascot’s large size, combined with the limited space at the stadium, led to the decision to deny his participation.
In comparison, Georgia’s mascot, Uga XI, a bulldog, is significantly smaller and is expected to attend the game. Interestingly, Bevo and Uga XI had a brief encounter in 2019, when Bevo broke through a barricade at the Sugar Bowl and nearly trampled the dog and onlookers.
Despite Bevo’s absence, Texas fans will still be able to cheer on their team as they face off against Georgia for a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff.