Big Al made his first official appearance at the 1980 Sugar Bowl when UA played Arkansas. Student Hugh Dye earned the honor to bring "Big Al" back to life in New Orleans, followed by Kent Howard and Maury Smith to kick off the inaugural 1980 season and roam the sidelines.
In 1980, Big Al made his debut at the Sugar Bowl when the University of Alabama faced Arkansas. Hugh Dye, a student, was tasked with reviving Big Al in New Orleans. Kent Howard and Maury Smith then took over the role of bringing Big Al to life for the inaugural 1980 season.