Mascots are becoming the talk of this year’s conference games! 12 games led to this moment, and it’s not surprising why college football teams wish to experience it on a new level. And why not SMU Mustangs? Under Coach Rhett Lashlee, they’re one of the lucky teams bringing their live mascot to their conference championship day. But one person’s excitement is another person’s displeasure. See what the animal rights nonprofit organization has to say about it. 

Fox College Football reported on X that SMU is “making big roster moves ahead of Championship Weekend” bringing pony Peruna IX, their live mascot to Charlotte. In response to this, PETA made an argument by sharing the post on December 7 with the caption, “Hey, @SMU, ponies are living individuals, NOT props for your championship game.” They also added their reason for disapproval, saying, “Ponies panic around loud noises—parading one around screaming fans & blaring music is cruel and senseless! PLEASE cancel Peruna IX s appearance & end your live mascot program!”

This incident came after SMU said they “can’t relate” to the SEC banning Steve Sarkisian and Texas from bringing their mascot with them to the conference title game. As per ESPN’s report, “Texas’ mascot, Bevo, was not permitted to travel to Atlanta for the SEC Championship. The size required for an enclosure large enough to house Bevo XV, who is more than 1,700 lbs with a horn span of 58 inches, was the issue, according to an SEC spokesman.” I mean, who wouldn’t want to flex such a majestic creature? But well, everything comes first for the common good! 

SMU didn’t want to meet the same outcome. The Mustangs even shared a photo of their adorable Shetland pony for size. But apparently, that particular reason is part of why Peruna isn’t suitable for a large, noisy crowd. So now the question is, is Peruna IX still coming to Bank of America Stadium?

Looking at SMU and Clemson ahead of ACC Championship game 

Saturday’s ACC Championship game will feature the best of both No. 8 SMU and No. 17 Clemson. With 11-1 and an undefeated conference record of 8-0, SMU is the unexpected face in this conference title game. They lead the nation in defense with 18 points per game and are fresh off of their last victory to mark their 9th consecutive win. Rhett Lashlee was also named the ACC Coach of the Year this week. 

For Dabo Swinney and Clemson, it’s not a new experience playing in the conference title game. This is the eighth time the Tigers have played in the title game since 2015, and they’ve won each of them! However, they’ve fallen behind the Mustangs this season with three losses and a 7-1 record in the ACC. They suffered a grim loss against rival South Carolina to cap off their regular season. But there are chances of upsets. Now, the winner of the game will receive an automatic spot as one of the top 4 teams in the 12-team playoff with a first-round bye. Who do you think has an upper edge in the game?