I'm a very passionate Auburn fan; I say that because I actually keep up with the team and the sport, not because I have all the memorabilia or orange and blue clothing. Since I'm a girl that actually knows stuff about college football, I often get into debates with guys who don't realize how in over their head they are. When they feel like they're losing the argument, they'll throw in, "Oh yeah? At least my team doesn't have two mascots." *Facepalm* From now on, I'm just going to write the URL for this article on the guy's forehead and walk away.

I'd like to set the record straight once and for all, as plainly as possible. Auburn does NOT have two mascots. There is ONE mascot, Aubie the tiger. The confusion stems from the expression "War Eagle," which Auburn fans use as a battle cry. It's also used to say "Hello, I acknowledge that you are also an Auburn fan," kind of like a more civilized version of UGA fans barking at each other.

The expression "War Eagle" has long been an Auburn tradition, and its origin story is from 1892. This is the year Auburn and Georgia had their first match-up. A civil war veteran had found an eagle on the battlefield, adopted it as a pet, and brought it to the game. As Auburn took the lead over Georgia, the eagle escaped and circled the stadium.

A trained eagle is now released to circle the stadium before the start of every game (unless television cables prevent it), landing in the center of the field. After his flight, the eagle travels the perimeter of the field with its trainer so that fans can get a closer view. This tradition is equally appreciated by the opposing fans, especially when the eagle goes to extra lengths to embody 'Merica.

THE TAKEAWAY: Auburn has ONE mascot and ONE battle cry, NOT two mascots.