Colorado Buffaloes Announce Major Ralphie News Ahead of Wyoming Cowboys Game

It didn't take long for the Colorado Buffaloes to solidify a new live buffalo mascot. As announced Friday, Ralphie VII will make her Folsom Field debut in Colorado's Week 4 game against the Wyoming Cowboys. The 700-pound American bison has yet to be named.

Aug 29, 2025; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders during the first quarter against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

As announced on Friday, the Colorado Buffaloes have solidified a new live buffalo mascot.

Upon the early retirement of Ralphie VI, Ralphie VII is set to make her Folsom Field debut in Colorado's Saturday night game against the Wyoming Cowboys. The 1-year-old American bison weighs 700 pounds and is "not indifferent to running," according to a press release.

Ralphie VII was donated to the University of Colorado by the Beauprez family, which owns Eagle's Wing Ranch near Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The family is comprised of multigenerational CU alumni.

Iconic Tradition Returning To Folsom Field

Sep 21, 2024; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Colorado Buffaloes Ralphie runs on the field before the game against the Baylor Bears at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images | Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images

Taylor Stratton, the director of CU's Ralphie Live Mascot Program, shared her excitement about beginning a new era to arguably the most iconic tradition in college football.

“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,” Stratton said in a press release. “We’re excited to be adding a new Ralphie to the lineage of incredible buffalo that have represented the University of Colorado and have elevated the fans’ passion for our student-athletes.”  

A new chapter for the greatest tradition in college sports. 🦬#GoBuffs | @CUBuffsRalphie pic.twitter.com/IndwG30gGq

— Colorado Buffaloes (@CUBuffs) September 19, 2025

Colorado's Family Weekend matchup with Wyoming has been sold out since June, and fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 8 p.m. MT to witness Ralphie VII's first run. Kickoff between the Buffs and Cowboys is set for 8:15 p.m.

MORE: Colorado Recruit Xavier Payne Sends Message Following Buffaloes Rough Loss

MORE: Four Colorado Buffaloes Under Most Pressure From Deion Sanders

MORE: Colorado Buffaloes' Poor Start To Season Coming With An Ironic Strength

"Tradition, you can't fake it. You can't buy it. You have to build it. You have to earn it," former Colorado linebacker Chad Brown said in a video announcing Ralphie VII. "It takes grit, strength and talent. We have a tradition like no other. We have Ralphie. She's more than a mascot. She's a symbol of strength and unyielding spirit. And now, she leads us into the future. The tradition continues. So run, Ralphie, run."

Ralphie VII will receive her nickname from her handlers following her first run.

Ralphie VI's Retirement

Nov 16, 2024; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Colorado Buffaloes mascot Ralphie is run out onto the field before the game against the Utah Utes at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Nicknamed "Ember," Ralphie VI often preferred a light gallop over running when leading the Buffaloes onto Folsom Field from 2021-24. Colorado announced her retirement just days before the team's season opener in late August.

"Ember has been excellent in many aspects of her role as Ralphie, but she's happiest relaxing on the ranch and we want to be respectful of her wishes," Stratton said. "She will continue to get the same top level of love and care that all of our Ralphies receive and will enjoy socializing with Ralphie V."