TCU's appearance in college football championship highlights school traditions

HOUSTON - This year's college championship game offered the Texas Christian University's Horned Frogs an opportunity to complete their improbable journey through an incredible season.

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For new TCU fans looking to cheer the first Texas team to appear in the college football playoffs, the school is steeped in traditions that can bring the experience alive. 

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First, the mascot: The Horned Frog first appeared in school publications in the 1800's. Despite conflicting reasons 'why', it has a fierce reputation. 

"They shoot blood from their eyes, as a defense mechanism, which is pretty cool," says Erich Hoff, of the TCU Alumni Board.

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There's, also, the TCU salute: The fore and middle fingers crooked like ears, with the remaining fingers tucked-in. It's supposed to resemble the frog's spikey "horns."

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Then, there's the school cheer, affectionately known as Riff Ram. It's started in the Roaring 20's and doesn't make much sense, but is taught to every student who comes to campus. 

"Riff, Ram, Bah, Zoo
Lickety, Lickety, Zoo Zoo
Who, Wah, Wah, Who
Give ‘em Hell, TCU!" 

Win, or lose, they are part of the traditions that make TCU what it is. Fans and supporters hope the nation has a lot more opportunities to learn about them.