The sideline at Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville is often filled with the heavy clang of cowbells and the roar of thousands of fans clad in maroon and white. Yet, amidst the intense energy of SEC football, there is one figure that commands a unique blend of reverence and affection: the Mississippi State mascot. Known universally as "Bully," this English Bulldog is more than just a lucky charm; he is a living embodiment of the university’s history, resilience, and identity.

While many universities utilize a costumed character to lead cheers, Mississippi State maintains a dual tradition. There is the costumed Bully who works the crowds and performs stunts, but the heart of the tradition lies with the live English Bulldog who serves as the official mascot. This lineage of bulldogs has witnessed decades of athletic struggle and triumph, evolving from a spontaneous student gesture into one of the most organized and respected mascot programs in collegiate sports.

The Evolution of an Identity: From Aggies to Bulldogs

It is often surprising to new fans to learn that Mississippi State teams did not start as the Bulldogs. In the early days of the institution, when it was known as Mississippi A&M College, the athletes were referred to as the "Aggies," reflecting the school’s agricultural roots. As the institution evolved into Mississippi State College in 1932, the nickname "Maroons" became the primary identifier, chosen simply because of the color of the team uniforms.

However, the "Bulldog" moniker existed in the background long before it was made official. Historical records date the use of the term back to at least 1905. Following a decisive 11-0 victory over their arch-rivals from the University of Mississippi, students celebrated by holding a mock funeral for the "spirit" of their opponents. A coffin was paraded down the streets with a live bulldog pup placed on top. Newspaper reports from that era frequently commented on the "bulldog style" of play exhibited by the team, characterized by tenacity and a refusal to back down. It wasn't until 1961, shortly after the college achieved university status, that "Bulldogs" was formally adopted as the official nickname, though by then, Bully had already been the face of the school for over two decades.

The Legend of Bully I and the Power of Tradition

The official era of the live mascot began in 1935. Head football coach Major Ralph Sasse, looking for a way to inspire his squad, acquired an English Bulldog named Ptolemy (nicknamed "Tol"). The impact was immediate. After Tol's arrival, the team secured a string of high-profile victories, including wins over Alabama and Army. This success solidified the belief that the bulldog was a necessary component of the school's athletic fortune.

A litter-mate of Ptolemy was soon brought in and given the title "Bully." This first Bully became a campus celebrity, but his life came to a tragic end in 1939 when he was struck by a campus bus. The reaction from the student body was unprecedented. A massive funeral procession, nearly half a mile long, was held in his honor. Accompanied by the university band and ROTC battalions, Bully I was laid to rest under the bench at the 50-yard line of Scott Field. The event was so culturally significant that it was covered by Life magazine, cementing the bulldog as a permanent fixture of Mississippi State lore.

Understanding the Lineage: The Many Faces of Bully

Since the days of Bully I, the title has been passed down through a carefully managed lineage. Each dog is an American Kennel Club registered English Bulldog and is bestowed the inherited title of "Bully" followed by a Roman numeral. While they all share the official title, most have a "call name" used by their handlers and fans.

Over the years, various Bullys have faced their own unique challenges and triumphs:

  • Bully VI (B-Dog): Known for his feisty personality, he was once "dog-napped" by students from a rival school before a major game. Despite the distraction, Mississippi State went on to win the game 6-0.
  • Bully VIII: This bulldog presided over the transition to university status in the early 1960s. He was famously involved in a 1958 incident where he was kidnapped and painted in rival colors, yet he survived the ordeal and served for many years, witnessing the first nationally televised game in the school's history.
  • Bully XIX (Tonka): A fan favorite during the early 2000s, Tonka was known for his calm demeanor and was a constant presence at both football and baseball games.

Each transition from one Bully to the next is marked by a "Passing of the Harness" ceremony. This is typically held during a home game, where the retiring mascot officially hands over his duties to his successor. It is a moment of high emotion for the fan base, signifying the continuity of the university's spirit across generations.

The Current Reign: Bully XXII, Known as "Dak"

As of 2026, the current live mascot is Bully XXII, affectionately known by his call name, "Dak." Named in honor of legendary Mississippi State quarterback Dak Prescott, this bulldog represents the modern era of the program. Dak was selected not just for his pedigree, but for his temperament. As a live mascot, the dog must be comfortable with loud noises, large crowds, and constant attention from fans of all ages.

Dak’s tenure has been characterized by high visibility. Unlike some of his predecessors who lived in fraternity houses or with individual owners, Dak’s life is highly structured to ensure his well-being. He resides with a designated family in Meridian but makes frequent trips to Starkville for games, campus events, and public appearances. His presence at "The Junction" during pre-game tailgating is a highlight for many families, who wait in line just to get a photo with the famous bulldog.

The Dual Mascot System: Live vs. Costumed

While the live bulldog is the official mascot, the costumed Bully plays an equally vital role in the game-day experience. The costumed version of Bully is a student-athlete who undergoes a rigorous selection process. This character is designed to be high-energy, engaging in acrobatic stunts, leading the "Hail State" fight song, and interacting with the student section in ways a live animal cannot.

This dual approach allows Mississippi State to have the best of both worlds. The live bulldog provides a sense of history, dignity, and a tangible connection to the "bulldog style" of play. Meanwhile, the costumed mascot provides the entertainment and crowd-leading energy required in modern collegiate athletics. Both versions of Bully are considered essential members of the Mississippi State family.

World-Class Care: The Role of the College of Veterinary Medicine

One of the most impressive aspects of the Mississippi State mascot program is the level of care provided to the live bulldogs. Mississippi State is home to one of the premier Colleges of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) in the country, and the health of Bully is their top priority.

The live mascot receives regular check-ups, specialized diets, and state-of-the-art medical care at the CVM. During games, particularly in the humid Mississippi heat, Bully's health is monitored constantly. He often sits in a custom-made, air-conditioned doghouse on the sidelines to ensure he stays cool and comfortable. This commitment to animal welfare is a point of pride for the university and serves as a model for other schools with live animal mascots.

Choosing an English Bulldog as a mascot comes with specific responsibilities. The breed is known for being prone to overheating and respiratory issues. The university’s proactive approach, utilizing their own veterinary experts, ensures that Bully is not just a symbol, but a well-cared-for member of the community. This high standard of care helps reassure fans and the public that the tradition is being maintained ethically and responsibly.

Bully and the Cowbell: A Harmonious Tradition

You cannot discuss the Mississippi State mascot without mentioning the cowbell. The two traditions are inextricably linked. The most popular legend regarding the cowbell involves a jersey cow wandering onto the field during a game against a rival. State won that game, and the cow—and eventually just its bell—became a good luck charm.

Today, the sight of Bully leading the team onto the field to the deafening sound of thousands of ringing cowbells is one of the most iconic scenes in college football. The mascot serves as the visual focus for this auditory tradition. When Bully is on the field, the cowbells ring louder. It is a sensory experience that defines what it means to be a Bulldog.

The Role of the Mascot in the Community

Beyond the football field, Bully serves as an ambassador for the university. He appears at charity events, local schools, and university functions throughout the year. For many children in Mississippi, meeting Bully is their first introduction to the university, creating a lifelong bond before they ever step into a classroom.

The mascot program also provides unique opportunities for students. Those who portray the costumed Bully receive scholarships and develop leadership skills, while student handlers for the live mascot gain hands-on experience in animal husbandry and public relations under the guidance of the CVM staff.

Advice for Fans: Interacting with Bully

For those visiting Starkville and hoping to catch a glimpse of Bully, there are a few things to keep in mind. While he is generally very friendly and accustomed to people, he is still a working animal with a busy schedule.

  1. Respect the Handlers: The students and staff with Bully are there to ensure his safety and comfort. Always follow their instructions regarding when and how to approach the dog.
  2. Be Mindful of the Heat: On game days, Bully may spend more time in his air-conditioned house than out in the open. If you don't see him on the sideline, he is likely just taking a necessary break.
  3. Check Social Media: The university often posts Bully’s schedule for public appearances. This is the best way to ensure you can get that coveted photo without disrupting his game-day duties.
  4. Support the Program: The care for the live mascot is funded through donations and university support. Purchasing official mascot merchandise is a great way to contribute to the continued welfare of the Bully lineage.

A Symbol of Resilience

The choice of a bulldog as a mascot was not arbitrary. It was a reflection of a specific type of character—tough, tenacious, and fiercely loyal. Through different names and different eras, that character has remained the constant at Mississippi State.

As Bully XXII "Dak" continues his reign into the latter half of the 2020s, he stands as a bridge between the university's past and its future. He is a reminder of the funerals held in the 1930s, the dognapping escapades of the 1950s, and the modern athletic successes of today. Whether he is lounging in his air-conditioned house or lead-walking across the grass of Scott Field, Bully remains the ultimate symbol of what it means to "Hail State."

In a world of rapidly changing sports trends, the steadfast presence of an English Bulldog in Starkville provides a sense of continuity and home. He is not just a mascot; he is the soul of the university, wrapped in a wrinkled, maroon-and-white-clad package. For every student who has walked across the Drill Field and every alumnus who has rung a cowbell until their hand was sore, Bully is the face of their most cherished memories. As the tradition moves forward, one thing is certain: as long as there is a Mississippi State, there will be a Bully standing guard over the Bulldogs.