Inspired by the bison on Indiana's state seal, IU’s student senate chose a bison to be the Hoosier mascot in October 1965. A live bison was a bit cost-prohibitive, so they opted for a costume instead. Unfortunately, the bison costume was uncomfortable, difficult to see through, and cheerleaders had to lead the mascot around with a rope. Despite the bison’s failed four-year run, IU appeared in the AP poll in three consecutive years in that time (1967-1969), and appeared in the 1968 Rose Bowl.
