Hmm, I think we're #1. But then, of course I would, wouldn't I?
Nevertheless, here's my argument for us leapfrogging #1-4 on this list:
#1 - Clemson -- they're only high on the list because of recent success. Ten years ago, no one was talking about the tiger paw lads running down the hill onto the field unless it was to talk about what a bad idea it was: twisted ankles and all. Okay, rubbing the rock is unique, but it's also a little homoerotic, isn't it? I mean, you want me to rub Howard's what? Let them be #3, I guess, but only if the lads are using hand sanitizer after they get down to the sidelines.
#2 - Auburn -- this isn't even an entrance onto the field. It's the Auburn equivalent to the Vol Walk. Which we do a heck of a lot better, even at bowl games far from home. Cheers for the Auburn fans showing out for their lads, but: Disqualified.
#3 - South Carolina -- this gets the #2 spot, maybe. Only two problems with it. First, it's kind of young for a tradition (more about that in just a sec when we get to Arizona State), and second, I don't get the link between the university and space. Maybe if the campus were right beside Kennedy Space Center, in Florida? Or if Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were USCe alums? But to be inspired by an Elvis arrival (literally, this is where they got the idea, from an Elvis concert...you know, Elvis...from Tennessee)...well, it's cool and all but has no cultural significance to their university. At least it gets to remain on the list, unlike Auburn.
#4 - Arizona State -- I'm all about recognizing American heroes, and I'm super proud of the school for naming a part of their campus after Pat Tillman. But come on, Sun Devils! A friggin tunnel? A hole...in a building. You couldn't find an entire building to name? Or a street? Or even an intersection or coffee stand? ANYTHING tangible? You honored Pat by naming a hole after him. And now we're gonna recognize you on a list of the best entrances in college football because your players run out of that hole onto the field. In a "tradition" that dates back a whole...decade? You can do better.
Conclusion: Running Through the T is #1.
Go Vols!