Back to the College Football Uniforms
Nebraska’s scarlet and cream classic uniforms are a staple of tradition in Lincoln and have only been altered slightly through the years.
Since 1970, Nebraska’s modern white shells with a single scarlet block “N” logo have been worn on gamedays. In 1981, a gray facemask was replaced with scarlet for its current look. The block “N” was added to hip on pants in 1998 and stationed to the left by coach Bill Callahan six years later.
Nebraska’s red top-white pants combo at home has been worn since the 1940s, but alterations have been made to the look including multiple stripes and font changes through the years. A few years during the 1940s and 50s, the Cornhuskers had gray pants with a red stripe but haven’t returned to that get up. Shoulder stripes were added to home and away tops in 1959. Sizes and styles have varied since.
On the road, the Cornhuskers often wear white tops and scarlet pants. White pants are available as well. In 2011 to commemorate Nebraska’s first season in the Big Ten, a “Big Red” jersey patch was added to the shoulder on gameday. The Cornhuskers have gone all-scarlet once in history during a 1986 game against Oklahoma.
We’ve all heard Nebraska’s “Blackshirts” nickname, so it’s still a little surprising the Cornhuskers haven’t donned an all-black get up during the uniform era. Adidas nearly achieved the feat in 2012 with its “Unrivaled” campaign, outfitting Nebraska with TechFit bright scarlet uniforms accented in black with white trim. A black helmet made the combination pop. The restriction-free jerseys and pants kept players cool with ventilation zones and were 30% lighter than Nebraska’s usual gameday gear.
Nebraska’s current eight-year deal with Adidas ends this season. The Cornhuskers have been with the stripes for more than a decade. A five-year renewal is on the table but Nebraska has yet to accept the offer.
