So Monday we got the news that the team slogan for Iowa Football 2012 is “Enter the Black.”

I would have gone with “Into the Mystic” or “Over the Rainbow,” but to each his own.

I read the linked story. I went to Google. And I can’t figure out from what book or film the phrase “Enter the Black” emanates. But it’s not like I poured my heart into finding out.

Neil Young: Rock and roll is here to stay

No matter. Because I’m always here to help, and I’m giving the Hawkeyes a song to go with their slogan. It is, of course, Neil Young’s “My My Hey Hey (Into the Black).”

The lyrics don’t really seem to be a bit applicable to a football team trying to “be able to trust, adapt and be together to enter the black,” as Iowa defensive end Joe Gaglione said. In fact, they couldn’t be less applicable.

My my, hey hey
Rock and roll is here to stay
It’s better to burn out than to fade away
My my, hey hey

Out of the blue and into the black
They give you this but you pay for that
And once you’re gone, you can’t come back
When you’re out of the blue and into the black

This thing rocks. And what else really matters? I mean, the entrance song for the Hawkeyes at games at Kinnick Stadium is AC/DC’s “Back in Black.” The lyrics have little if anything to do eith Iowa football other than the team wears black jerseys and is heading back onto its home field.

Back in black
I hit the sack
I’ve been too long I’m glad to be back
Yes I’m, let loose
From the noose
That’s kept me hanging about
I keep looking at the sky
‘Cause it’s gettin’ me high
Forget the hearse ’cause I’ll never die
I got nine lives
Cat’s eyes
Usin’ every one of them and running wild

‘Cause I’m back
Yes, I’m back
Well, I’m back
Yes, I’m back
Well, I’m back, back
(Well) I’m back in black
Yes, I’m back in black

Huh?

I know a lot of you think “Back in Black” is perfect for an entrance song. But I beseech thee to open your minds and consider the raging guitars of Neil Young and Crazy Horse as a one-year replacement. Why?

Because it’s better to burn out than fade away.

My my hey hey.

BONUS TRACK: “Black” by Pearl Jam.