This week, former Alabama Crimson Tide safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix joined the New Wave Podcast for an engaging conversation with current Alabama players Ryan Williams and Jaylen Mbakwe. During the discussion, Clinton-Dix reflected on his time with the Crimson Tide and shared his insights on various topics.
Clinton-Dix, a first-round pick by the Green Bay Packers in the 2014 NFL Draft, was a key player for Alabama from 2011 to 2013. During his collegiate career, he helped lead the Crimson Tide to back-to-back national championships in 2011 and 2012, solidifying his reputation as one of the best safeties in the program’s history.
One of the more interesting moments during the podcast came when Williams asked Clinton-Dix about his least favorite SEC team to play against. Fans might have expected him to name a traditional rival such as Auburn, LSU, or Tennessee. However, Clinton-Dix offered a surprising answer: Mississippi State.
Clinton-Dix explained that his aversion to playing against Mississippi State had little to do with the team’s performance on the field. Instead, it stemmed from the atmosphere at Davis Wade Stadium, specifically the Bulldogs’ tradition of ringing cowbells during games.
“Mississippi State,” Clinton-Dix revealed. “Because I hated those cowbells. They’re so annoying. I know we didn’t play them this year, but if we did, y’all would’ve heard it all week…. So I would say Mississippi State is my least favorite stadium to play in.”
For those unfamiliar, Mississippi State fans are known for bringing their iconic cowbells to games, creating a loud and distinct environment that is meant to rattle opposing teams. While Bulldogs fans see the cowbells as a source of pride and a unique tradition, they are often a source of frustration for visiting players and fans alike.
Clinton-Dix’s candid response likely resonates with many non-Mississippi State fans who have experienced the relentless clanging of cowbells at Davis Wade Stadium. Love it or hate it, the cowbell tradition provides Mississippi State with a notable home-field advantage, one that has left a lasting impression on players like Clinton-Dix.
Though the cowbells may be divisive, they remain an integral part of Mississippi State’s identity and SEC culture, continuing to distinguish the Bulldogs’ home games from others in the conference.
