Why OSU Has Become the Newest Pac-12 Frequent Flier on ‘GameDay’

Where does the soul of college football reside? There’s no one answer, but a good place to start has flown every Saturday morning since 2004 high above hundreds of fans during ESPN’s College GameDay. Whether it’s on an active aircraft carrier, in freezing temperatures in Montana, or in enemy territory in Seattle, a crimson flag with a white Washington State logo dubbed Ol’ Crimson has been there. Later this season, it will hit a milestone for 300 straight appearances, but lately, Ol’ Crimson has found some company.

Oregon State alums Todd Butler, and Andy Lake were among the Beavers fans who had admired the Ol’ Crimson movement from afar and decided to see if they could replicate it. The idea for the Dam Flag was born, and a large Beavers logo emblazoned on a black or orange flag can now be seen right next to Ol’ Crimson during the show.

While the Washington State flag has been on the ‘College GameDay’ set for nearly 300 straight airings, Oregon State joined this year in solidarity as the last two members of the Pac-12. 

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