© Troy Taormina/Imagn
The Colorado Buffaloes football program made more news off the field on Tuesday afternoon. But this time it had nothing to do with polarizing head coach Deion Sanders.
Instead, the news revolved around Colorado’s live Buffalo mascot, Ralphie VI. The school announced that Ralphie, whose real name is Ember, is retiring and will no longer run across the field prior to Colorado home games.
And the reason why is incredible.
Colorado announces Ralphie VI, its live buffalo mascot named “Ember,” is retiring. An “indifference to running” contributed to the decision. The school is training Ralphie VII for her debut, but the team will take the field without its live mascot in the interim. pic.twitter.com/DJe11Buck7
— Adam Rittenberg (@ESPNRittenberg) August 26, 2025
Ralphie VI Is Retiring Because She Thinks Running Is Lame!
According to a press release from the Colorado athletic department, Ralphie is retiring in part due to an “indifference to running.”
“Ember will now transition to a companion buffalo role, living with Ralphie V on their ranch,” the release stated. “Due to an indifference to running, typical of many mammals both four-legged and two-legged, it was determined that it was in Ember’s best interest, based on her disposition, to focus on relaxing strolls on the pasture, which is her favorite hobby.”
Ralphie. Ember. Whatever I am supposed to call you. I have never related more to a college football mascot in my life!
I, too, have an indifference to running. Sadly, that does not serve as an adequate reason for early retirement in the human world. Although former Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Desmond Watson might disagree.
But fear not, college football fans, the Buffs still plan to continue one of the best pregame traditions in the entire sport. It may just take a little time.
A” succession plan has been in place for a number of months and more information on Ralphie VII will be provided when it’s available,” the press release continued. “Since top prioritization is given to the buffalo’s health, well-being, happiness, and safety there is no exact timeline for Ralphie VII’s debut while she continues training. In the interim, the Buffaloes football team will take the field without the university’s beloved live mascot.”
In the meantime, Ralphie VI (Ember), gets to live her best life, with only limited amounts of running involved.