The Univ. of Oklahoma yesterday "announced two alternative uniforms and helmets for the upcoming season," according to John Shinn of the NORMAN TRANSCRIPT. The crimson version of the Nike jerseys "switches out the 'Sooners' with an 'Oklahoma' and was designed to be worn with" a new cream-colored helmet. The ensemble was "designed as an homage" to late coach Bud Wilkinson’s "powerhouse teams" of the '40s and '50s, which "wore white headgear with a signature crimson stripe." The latest version "includes a similar stripe, as well as the addition of 'OU' on each side." OU coach Bob Stoops said the alternate uniforms "won’t be something we do constantly, but it will be a nice changeup and will be positive in recruiting, with our players and with our fans.” Shinn notes OU yesterday "also unveiled an alternative road uniform that includes a helmet and white stripe running down the middle of the traditional helmet and a black facemask." It was "designed to be worn with a white jersey that includes crimson sleeves and crimson pants with a white stripe down the side." OU has "worn throw-back uniforms in the past," the last time in an '09 road game at Texas Tech that was a tribute to the uniforms of the '50s. OU’s traditional uniform has "gone virtually unchanged for the last 40 years" (NORMAN TRANSCRIPT, 7/2). In Oklahoma City, Jason Kersey notes in a nod to a 47-game winning streak in the '50s, Nike "included '47 Straight' emblazoned on the inner neckline of both alternate jerseys." The alternates also were "designed to be interchangeable, meaning an all-red or all-white look would be possible as well" (OKLAHOMAN, 7/2).
