Puppy Bowl IX (2013)

For the ninth year in a row, with the help of Petfinder.com, Animal Planet has searched shelters and rescue organizations across the nation for star players to participate in the most anticipated sports event in animal history. And on game day, 63 furry pups will battle for barking rights with a winning combination of terrier tackles, canine touchdowns, puppy penalties and Fido first downs. In a game-day first, a squadron of hedgehog cheerleaders will occupy the sidelines and will root for their favorite players while sideline reporter "Meep the Bird" will return to tweet live updates throughout the game. Follow @MeepTheBird on game day for the latest news, puppy penalties and behind-the-scenes moments from inside the stadium.