Colorado Debuts Ralphie VII Buffalo Mascot vs Wyoming/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Colorado will introduce its new live buffalo mascot, Ralphie VII, during Saturday night’s game against Wyoming. Ralphie VII takes over for Ralphie VI, who retired after showing reluctance to run.
This debut continues a 58-year tradition that is central to the University of Colorado’s game-day identity.
Colorado Debuts Ralphie VII Mascot + Quick Looks
- Ralphie VII will debut Saturday night at Folsom Field.
- She replaces Ralphie VI, who retired before this season.
- The tradition of running Ralphie spans nearly six decades.
- Ralphie VII is a 1-year-old buffalo gifted by supporters.
- The Beauprez Family donated the mascot from Eagle’s Wing Ranch.
- Ralphie VI, known as Ember, had reluctance to run.
- Ember will join Ralphie V (“Blackout”) in retirement on the ranch.
- Director Taylor Stratton praised Ralphie VII’s energy and legacy potential.
- The Ralphie Live Mascot Program remains a fan-favorite tradition.
Deep Look: Colorado to Debut New Live Mascot Ralphie VII Against Wyoming
A longstanding and beloved college football tradition returns in full stride this weekend as the University of Colorado introduces its newest live buffalo mascot, Ralphie VII, during Saturday night’s game against Wyoming at Folsom Field.
Weighing in at a robust 700 pounds and just over one year old, Ralphie VII is set to revive the energy of a game-day ritual that spans 58 years. She steps in as the new face of Colorado football’s most visible and symbolic figure—replacing Ralphie VI, also known by her nickname “Ember,” who retired after showing a lack of enthusiasm for game-day runs.
“Ralphie’s run is iconic, and our fans, students, faculty, staff, and alumni take an incredible amount of pride in this tradition which transcends sports,” said Taylor Stratton, director of the Ralphie Live Mascot Program. According to Stratton, the introduction of Ralphie VII continues a legacy that connects generations of fans, athletes, and alumni to something far bigger than football.
The Ralphie tradition, which involves the buffalo making a galloping loop around the stadium field before kickoff, is not only a visual spectacle but one of the most storied mascots in college football. This isn’t just showmanship—it’s heritage, and for fans of Colorado football, it is deeply personal.
The university announced that while Ralphie VII is the buffalo’s official name, a unique nickname will be revealed soon—customary once each buffalo completes her first run in front of the home crowd.
The newest mascot comes to the university as a gift from the Beauprez Family, long-time supporters of the program and owners of Eagle’s Wing Ranch near Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Their contribution ensures that the Ralphie legacy continues, and that the live mascot remains a living symbol of Colorado’s spirit and tradition.
Ralphie VII has been described by the university as “definitely not indifferent to running,” a subtle but clear contrast to her predecessor. Ralphie VI, known affectionately as Ember, showed reluctance to make the traditional pre-game run and was ultimately retired before the 2025 season began.
In a sport defined by high-stakes recruiting, it’s perhaps no surprise that head coach Deion Sanders now finds himself with a new “recruit” who already commands attention. Though not a player, Ralphie VII is an integral part of the team’s identity and Saturday’s game against Wyoming offers fans a chance to witness her first official run under the lights of Folsom Field.
Ralphie VI, who will now spend her retirement alongside Ralphie V (“Blackout”), seemed more comfortable living the ranch life than making laps in front of a roaring crowd. The school confirmed that Ember’s new routine will include plenty of relaxation—something she’s reportedly quite fond of.
Saturday’s return of a live mascot marks the end of a brief absence. A version of Ralphie has been missing from the last two home games, leaving fans wondering when the next buffalo would take up the mantle. With Ralphie VII stepping in, the university and fans alike will see a return to the full pageantry of Buffaloes football.
Taylor Stratton emphasized that the Ralphie Live Mascot Program isn’t just about game-day showmanship. It serves as a point of pride that connects the university to its western roots, while also providing student handlers with opportunities to engage in leadership, animal care, and university spirit in a meaningful way.
Whether it’s a game-winning drive or the thunderous gallop of a buffalo across a football field, Colorado fans know what excites them—and this weekend, the return of Ralphie’s run is sure to electrify the crowd and continue a tradition unlike any other in college football.
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