Bowling Green, Ohio — Pudge the cat might spend most of his time napping, but lately, he’s been busy becoming one of the most beloved figures in college football.
The 3-year-old exotic shorthair Persian, known for his squished face and habit of sticking out his tongue, has become the unofficial mascot of Bowling Green State University football — all thanks to his owner, senior long snapper George Carlson.
Carlson says Pudge made his first appearance during fall camp over the summer, right when the team needed a lift.
“We were halfway through camp and had a tough scrimmage where a player went down,” Carlson recalled. “Everyone was feeling down, and I thought it might lighten the mood if I brought my cat in. I figured it would make everyone smile — and it did.”
What started as a lighthearted moment quickly turned into a viral sensation. Carlson’s teammate posted videos of Pudge on TikTok, and the internet fell in love. Since then, Bowling Green’s football attendance has jumped nearly 60% from last year, according to the university — a surge credited in part to the team’s adorable new good-luck charm.
Even new head coach Eddie George, a Heisman Trophy winner and former NFL standout who happens to be allergic to cats, has warmed up to Pudge. Carlson says that’s partly thanks to a sponsorship deal with Purina ONE LiveClear — a cat food scientifically designed to reduce the allergens found in cat hair and dander.
“People who are allergic to cats have been able to be around Pudge without any problems,” Carlson said. “Purina LiveClear really helps with that.”
Pudge’s rising fame has drawn comparisons to another four-legged college football celebrity — ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit’s golden retriever, Peter. Carlson hopes the two might meet someday.
@officialbgsu Pudge made it out to the Doyt last night to see his fans & @CNN this morning 🧡📺🐈 #bgsu #pudge #football #pudgethecat #collegefootball ♬ original sound – rook1e_szn
“I think it would be great if Pudge and Peter met,” Carlson said. “Both of them bring comfort and support to people in high-pressure environments. They help us handle the stress that comes with football.”
For Carlson, Pudge has been more than a mascot — he’s been a source of strength through hard times. The senior player lost his mother, Cristen, to ovarian cancer last year, and says his bond with Pudge has helped him heal.
“Our bond has transformed my life,” he shared. “He knows he’s safe with me, and being with him gives me peace. He’s been my constant companion through everything.”
These days, Pudge enjoys life on the sidelines and in the stands, soaking up attention wherever he goes. His trademark tongue-out expression and unmistakably “mushy” face have captured hearts both on and off the field.
“Everyone loves that about him,” Carlson said with a smile. “People always ask, ‘Why does he look like that?’ And I just tell them — that’s Pudge. He’s one of a kind.”