Ever been psyched out by a clam?

Probably not, but that doesn't stop many U.S. sports teams from choosing small and, some might say, unsightly animals to represent themselves. But what these critters lack in beauty they make up for in toughness and resilience-hence their role as mascots.

With the Super Bowl looming, I took author's prerogative to ask: "What are some of the most unusual animal mascots?" for Weird Animal Question of the Week. (Related: "Pictures: 100 Years of Football in America.")

From lumpy aquatic mammals to squirmy slugs, here are six reasons to remember that looks aren't everything.

This huge, burrowing clam, found in abundance in the Pacific Northwest's Puget Sound (map), represents Evergreen State's flexibility and