Capital One: After months of fierce competition, University of Nebraska’s Herbie the Husker proved he’s top of the heap, having raked in the most votes to earn the coveted title of Capital One Mascot of the Year. Herbie edged out the ever-stylin’ Sam the Minuteman from UMass in the championship round. The highly anticipated announcement was made on air during halftime of the nationally televised Capital One Bowl. Herbie bested 11 deeply talented (and oddly-proportioned) All-American mascots to bring glory (and $10,000) to the University of Nebraska.

“This was our largest voter turnout yet. 17-million fans have spoken, and named Herbie as king,” said Pam Girardo at Capital One. “This contest was designed to recognize to the unsung heroes of college football, so we’re thrilled to see so many fans get behind their mascots.”

Last summer, 12 eye-catching characters were named to the Fourth Annual Capital One All-America Mascot Team, and have since been embroiled in an intense competition to be named Capital One Mascot of the Year. Since September 1st, fans have come out in force casting their vote for best beast at www.capitalonebowl.com or via text messaging.

Prior winners are Univ. of Montana’s grizzly bear, Monte (2002 and 2004), and Univ. of South Carolina’s gamecock, Cocky (2003).