Eli Manning, Bo Nix help Auburn set world record at Toomer’s Corner!

Auburn, AL — In a display of tradition, unity, and light-hearted competition, Toomer’s Corner once again became the epicenter of college football celebration—this time with a twist that captured national attention. On a sun-splashed Saturday afternoon, Auburn University, with the help of quarterback legends Bo Nix and Eli Manning, set a world record for the most people simultaneously rolling a tree with toilet paper.

What started as a spirited idea between Auburn athletics, a few sponsors, and the Guinness World Records team turned into a full-scale event that drew over 10,000 fans, media outlets, and even some of the sport’s most legendary figures

No college football tradition is quite like rolling Toomer’s Corner.

Following a big win—or even just out of love for the Auburn Tigers—fans flock to the corner of Magnolia Avenue and College Street to throw rolls of toilet paper into the oaks, coating the historic trees in a white celebration of triumph and pride.

The tradition dates back decades, originally started as a way for Toomer’s Drugs to signal a road win by throwing ticker tape into the trees. Over the years, it evolved into a beloved ritual, surviving even after the original oaks were poisoned in 2010. In 2017, Auburn planted new trees, which are now the centerpieces of victory celebrations once again.

One of the central figures of the event was Bo Nix, the former Auburn quarterback who transferred to Oregon and enjoyed a stellar career in the Pac-12 before being selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos.

Despite finishing his college career elsewhere, Nix remains deeply connected to Auburn—his father, Patrick Nix, also played quarterback for the Tigers, and Bo’s legacy on The Plains is secure.

“Auburn will always be home,” Nix told reporters at the event. “I grew up rolling Toomer’s with my family. To be back here, setting a world record, it’s surreal.”

Nix took part in the ceremonial “first toss” of toilet paper into the trees, launching a long spiral that sent fans into a frenzy and officially kicked off the attempt to set the record.

In a surprise twist, Eli Manning, the two-time Super Bowl champion and Ole Miss legend, arrived at Toomer’s Corner to help Auburn fans make history. Manning’s involvement was part of a light-hearted segment for his ESPN+ show, Eli’s Places, where he visits various college football landmarks.

Decked out in an Auburn polo shirt and donning orange and blue beads, Eli embraced the moment—throwing rolls, taking selfies, and even delivering a short speech to the crowd.

“I’m here today not as a Rebel,” Manning joked. “I’m here as a fan of traditions that make college football the greatest sport in America. And this one? It’s at the top.”

His appearance helped bridge SEC rivalries and drew laughs and cheers from the crowd. Even longtime Auburn fans admitted it was “weird but wonderful” to see Manning rolling Toomer’s.

According to Guinness World Records officials on-site, Auburn needed at least 3,000 individuals simultaneously rolling trees with toilet paper for a minimum of 30 seconds to qualify for the record. The final count? 4,875 verified participants.

Each participant had to register, receive a roll of biodegradable toilet paper, and toss it into the trees in a coordinated moment led by the Auburn cheerleaders and the marching band.

The moment was electric. As the clock struck the designated minute, thousands of toilet paper rolls soared through the air like streamers, blanketing the trees and the sky above Toomer’s Corner.

“It was one of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever seen,” said Auburn student Emily Carter. “This wasn’t just about football—it was about being part of something bigger.”

Within minutes, the white canopy over Toomer’s was complete, and Guinness officials confirmed that Auburn had successfully set a new world record.

The event featured more than just toilet paper and touchdowns. Fans were treated to a fan fest atmosphere complete with:

• Live music from local bands
• Food trucks featuring Southern staples
• Appearances from Auburn legends including Carnell “Cadillac” Williams, Takeo Spikes, and Cam Newton (via video)
• A special “Kids Zone” with miniature trees for young fans to roll
• QR-coded wristbands offering discounts at downtown Auburn businesses

The Auburn Spirit Squads performed cheers and dances, while Aubie the Tiger delighted the crowd with acrobatics and jokes.

Local charities benefited from proceeds of merchandise sold at the event, including commemorative “World Record at Toomer’s” T-shirts and autographed footballs.

While on the surface the event was fun and light-hearted, many involved emphasized its deeper significance.

For Auburn, it was a celebration of identity and tradition—something no scoreboard or rivalry can diminish.

“This is what Auburn is all about,” said head coach Hugh Freeze, who made a brief appearance to greet fans. “Family. Joy. Tradition. And maybe a little mischief with some toilet paper.”

For the players and alumni, it was a chance to reconnect. For the students, it was a memory they’ll carry for life. And for college football fans across the country, it was a reminder of why these kinds of traditions still matter in an increasingly commercialized sport.

Auburn officials assured the public that the toilet paper used was fully biodegradable and would be cleaned up carefully to protect the health of the trees. They also hinted that the event could become an annual tradition—perhaps even growing in scope or pairing with homecoming festivities.

And the world record? Auburn fans are already daring others to try and beat it.

“We’re setting the bar,” one fan yelled as he launched a perfect roll from 20 yards out. “Let’s see if Alabama can top that!”

In a season where college football is often dominated by debates over NIL deals, conference realignment, and playoff formats, Auburn’s world record attempt at Toomer’s Corner offered something rare: pure, unfiltered joy.

With Bo Nix returning to his roots, Eli Manning lending star power and SEC camaraderie, and thousands of fans celebrating shoulder to shoulder, the day will go down as one of the most memorable non-game events in Auburn football history.

The trees may be clean again soon.
But the memory of Toomer’s whiteout world record?
That’s not going anywhere.