Animal Farm

In an effort to gain more of an identity, as well as to increase revenue from the sale of apparel, Syracuse, which was until now unofficially known as the Orange, is expected to announce that its official mascot is either a wolf or a lion. ("Orange is a color," says Syracuse athletic director Jake Crouthamel, "not a mascot.") To whomever is chosen to howl or roar in the Carrier Dome, we extend a warning: These are dangerous times for mascots.

Navy Goats Nov. 5
Retired Bill XXVI and active Bills XXVIII and XXIX snatched by Army's class of '96 in predawn kidnapping. Goats were returned.

Miami Heat's Burnie, Oct. 12
Having already been convicted of assault for pulling a fan out of her seat during a preseason game last year, the 7'6" lint magnet is stuck with a $1 million civil suit over the same incident.

Cleveland Indians' Slider Oct. 14
Tears knee ligaments after slipping off rightfield wall and falling eight feet onto Miming track during Championship Series against Seattle Mariners.

Seattle's Mariner Moose Oct. 7
Breaks right ankle while performing an in-line skating routine during Division Series against New York Yankees.

Maine's Bananas the Bear, Oct. 25
Suffers bruises after getting jabbed in bear head and bear midsection during run-in with one of school's basketball players. Charges against player still being considered.

Anaheim Mighty Bucks' Wild Wing Oct. 18
Comes up short while leaping through "wall" of flames during pregame stunt; costume catches fire, but Wing escapes serious injury.