Colorado Buffaloes games hit differently when Ralphie storms the field before kickoff. It’s tradition, adrenaline, and pure school pride.
But lately, fans have noticed something’s off. Ralphie VI just doesn’t have the same energy, and now Redditors are calling for an early retirement.
A growing thread on Reddit says what many were thinking: her runs are slower, shorter, and lack the spark. The movement’s gaining traction fast, and it’s got people asking, Is it time for Ralphie VII?
Six Decades of Ralphie Running Strong
For over 50 years, before every home football game, Colorado fans have welcomed a true force of nature. Over 1,000 pounds of speed, power, and tradition, barreling across the field in one of the most electrifying rituals in all of college football.
Ralphie isn’t just a mascot; she’s a living, breathing icon of Colorado Buffaloes pride. First introduced in 1967, the Ralphie run started with Ralphie I and has continued through six generations.
The current Ralphie, whose real name is Ember, carries on a legacy rooted in Boulder’s game-day history dating back to the 1930s.
Concerns Grow Around Aging Ralphie VI
Ralphie VI was born on May 26, 2020, in western Nebraska and made her Colorado debut on Sept. 3, 2021. At just over four years old, she’s still young, but questions are swirling about whether she’s up for the job. Donated in late 2020 and trained for nearly a year, she was an orphan raised by a beef cow, which only added to her charm.
But fans started to notice signs of wear last season, especially during the Alamo Bowl, where she looked slow and out of shape. Some were surprised she was even made to travel to Texas.
Her Nebraska roots don’t help either, with diehards calling it an ironic misstep. Unlike past Ralphies who became school icons, Ralphie VI has missed several runs and hasn’t captured the same magic.
Now, with calls from insiders like Adam Munsterteiger to begin training her replacement, fans wonder if it’s time to start planning for Ralphie VII.
Redditors Want Ralphie VI Retired Early
A post on Reddit’s r/GoBuffs lit a fire under the fanbase with a blunt suggestion: “Ralphie needs an early retirement.” It quickly turned into a rallying cry.
One fan wrote, “She’s had plenty of time, just isn’t made for the job. Nothing wrong with that. We need a Ralphie, the team can run out behind again.” Another chimed in after the Alamo Bowl disaster, “I was there. Holy embarrassing.” The comments were blunt, even funny, “Ralphie hit Bison-menopause and said F** THIS.” The suggestions point to one thing: Ralphie VI just doesn’t have the energy, speed, or spark expected from the face of the program.
Fans pointed out that she often looks reluctant, lacks the explosive charge that made her predecessors legendary, and doesn’t seem to enjoy running. Some even said it feels cruel to keep pushing her when it’s clear she’s not suited for the job.
The message is loud and clear that Colorado needs a Ralphie that electrifies the stadium. And it might be time to give Ember the peaceful retirement she deserves.
Also Read: Why Coach Prime’s Colorado Buffaloes Don’t Have To Heavily Rely On the Quarterback This Year
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