South Carolina’s Cocky Earns National Praise in ESPN Mascot Power Rankings
Cocky, the University of South Carolina’s beloved mascot, just got a major shoutout from ESPN — and fans are loving it.
On Thursday, ESPN’s Ryan McGee released a power ranking of the top mascots in college football, and Cocky earned a spot among the best in the Mechanized Division, landing at No. 5 in the nation. The recognition highlights the iconic Gamecock’s growing popularity and unique game-day presence.
McGee divided his rankings into four creative categories: Costume Division, Mechanized Division, Human Division, and Live Animal Division, each featuring five standout mascots.
Cocky, known for his high-energy entrances and signature charisma, was specifically praised for his dramatic arrival in the Cockaboose, a red caboose-style train car that’s become a new pregame tradition at Williams-Brice Stadium.
“Cocky is one of America’s most underrated costume mascots, with a Big Red-like bouncy body and the biggest feet this side of Shaquille O’Neal,” McGee wrote.
“Prior to every game at Williams-Brice Stadium, amid the stirring sounds of 2001: A Space Odyssey, Cocky rides onto the field in a train pulling a red caboose… escorting Gamecock celebs, from Marcus Lattimore to Darius Rucker.”
The Cockaboose entrance was introduced in 2023, upgrading from Cocky’s previous debut through a mysterious black box on the field. The change has been a hit, earning applause from fans and national attention alike.
Although Cocky was edged out by Oklahoma’s Sooner Schooner, Georgia Tech’s Buzz in the Ramblin’ Wreck, Wake Forest’s Demon Deacon on a motorcycle, and Montana’s Monte on a Harley, his top-five placement still confirms his status as one of the most entertaining figures in college sports.
A Storied Legacy
Cocky has been part of South Carolina athletics since 1980 and has consistently garnered national recognition. He’s a two-time UCA National Champion (1989, 1994), an NCA National Champion in 2009, and a fan favorite in the Capital One Mascot Challenges.
In 2019, Sports Illustrated named Cocky one of the best mascots in college football history, and in 2025, he was nominated for the Mascot Hall of Fame — further solidifying his legendary status.
With booming cheers, a rolling red caboose, and a personality as big as his costume feet, Cocky continues to soar as one of college football’s most iconic mascots.
