The L.A. Times’ Bill Plaschke and David Wharton break down the all-important battle of the mascots at the 2006 Rose Bowl — Plaschke describing being constantly horrified in Bevo’s presence, David Wharton gets personal and asks Traveler where he lives.

A few interesting factoids from the two articles:

• This is the 14th Bevo that the Longhorns have had. And USC is on its 7th Traveler.
• Bevo XIV’s real name is Sunrise Studly.
• Traveler has been ridden by celebrities including Salma Hayek (and Fabio!)

Sure, these might be what you call “Sunday fluff pieces”. But quite honestly, I’m just happy to read a piece about the game that doesn’t talk about Reggie Bush going pro or how the 2005 Trojans would have done against a team from the 1950’s.

The No. 1 Steed [L.A. Times]
Need a Bully? Leave it to Bevo [L.A. Times]