A colored bull terrier called Rufus used his head Tuesday night to become America's top dog.
The tan-and-white mix won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club, beating out six strong contenders.
When it got down to Best in Show, Rufus was picked over a popular golden retriever, a Rottweiler handled by a former Florida State linebacker, a prize pug and a spirited Dalmatian.
No Rottweiler had ever won the working group until owner-breeder-handler Keith Carter guided Shaka to victory Monday night on the green carpet.
Carter is accustomed to winning on another green field. He played with Deion Sanders for coach Bobby Bowden's Seminoles in the late 1980s, won four bowl games and carried on a fierce rivalry with Miami.
"This is bigger than the 'Noles-'Canes," he said after his early win. "This is very different than football, but it really gets your competitive juices going."
At 6-foot-3 with a shaved head, diamond earring and beautifully tailored suit, Carter had a commanding presence in the ring. He had powerful gait like his dog and pumped his fist after victory.
"I never thought I'd be standing here," he said.
