30 Reasons for 30 Days - Day 3: Because of the Scarlet Knight (Part 2)

Since August 5, I have been posting a daily reason why it is great to be a fan of Rutgers football. There are a lot more than thirty, but I picked my thirty reasons, and hope you have liked them.

Yesterday, our reason was the Scarlet Knight. So how can today be the Scarlet Knight again? I mean, what are you tryin’ to pull here, buddy?

Rutgers is one of, well they are the only one I know of, that has TWO different versions of the mascot. There is the Scarlet Knight mascot that runs around and does fun things,

Photo by Joe Murphy/Getty Images

and then there is the OTHER Scarlet Knight, who enters on his horse in bright red armor to lead the troops into battle. However, he also meets with fans and poses for pictures, etc. Here’s a picture of the Knight posing with an alum:

However, this Scarlet Knight is also the subject of one of my personal favorite videos. It is played just prior to the team taking the field prior to each game. It shows the Scarlet Knight on horseback galloping across the campus to arrive at the stadium to lead the team onto the field. I think it is exceedingly well-done, and look forward to seeing it each game. For those of you who have not had the opportunity to see it on the big screen at the stadium, it is presented for you below:

When the video goes black, the music continues, and he gallops across the field to the cheers of the crowd. At that point, the team pours onto the field, running between the cheerleaders who are creating a path to enter the stadium. It is very moving, and never fails to energize the crowd.

So, today’s reason why it is great to be a fan of Rutgers football is the Scarlet Knight!

Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports