The new mascot succeeds Uga VI, who died in June of heart problems. He will be escorted onto the field by members of the Frank W. "Sonny" Seiler family of Savannah who have owned the continuous line of mascots since Uga I took up the mantle in 1956.

Uga VII's coronation will become official when UGA President Dr. Michael F. Adams slips the new red leather spike collar over his head during the ceremony at midfield.

Prior to his introduction, a video tribute to Uga VI will be shown on the stadium scoreboard.
At 56 and one half pounds, he'll be second only to Uga VI as the biggest mascot in the line. Seiler said he "has an excellent coat and bears a striking resemblance to his father."

"He's a great pet, already answers to his name, loves to travel and ride in the car," said Seiler. "He sleeps in his kennel in the den and is fed Hill's prescription maintenance dog food at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. Uga VII already loves to sit on the dock by the river and is ready for his first boat ride."

"Loran's Best" was originally named for long-time Georgia Athletic Association personality Loran Smith. Seiler said Uga VII has an entire new wardrobe made with the same material as the team jerseys.

Participating in the pre-game ceremony will be UGA Director of Athletics Damon Evans and the Georgia Redcoat Band. University Alumni Association president Trey Paris of Gainesville will also present a proclamation to the Seiler family honoring Uga VI and welcoming Uga VII.

Other Seiler family members on the field will be Frank W. "Sonny" and Cecelia Seiler, Swann Seiler, Wendy Seiler, Shannon and Bess Thompson and their children Tennyson and Seiler Thompson, Todd and Sara Story and their children Anna and William Story.

Kickoff for Saturday's game is set for 12:34 p.m.