Nike Reveals Ohio State Uniforms

Today, Nike released photos of the uniforms the Ohio State football team will be wearing against Wisconsin on their Facebook page.

This will be the third year of the “special” uniform promotion; the previous two honored past Ohio State teams, and this one seeks to honor the 1961 National Champions.

Unfortunately, the concerns of this writer were fulfilled, as the helmet has the distinctive wide stripe that we saw Georgia wear earlier this season. In addition, the base layer and gloves emulate the bark on the buckeye trees that are planted on campus to honor All Americans.  However, rumors of an all-black or dark gray uniform were unfounded- the design stays within the University’s color scheme.

In a press release, the University announced-

This year marks the 50th anniversary of The Ohio State University’s undefeated 1961 championship season — a distinctive milestone that provides a source of inspiration for a program steeped in tradition and rooted in pride. The 2011 Nike Pro Combat system of dress design for the Buckeyes harkens back to that team, whose offensive power lived in its backfield, led by the 6-0, 227-pound All-American fullback, Bob Ferguson. The Heisman runner-up was a power runner and contributed immensely to the team’s noteworthy speed, aggression and smarts. This uniform acknowledges the dominance of the 1961 team and will deliver an undeniable motivation for the current Buckeyes when they face off against Wisconsin on October 29.

Distinctive white block lettering on Ohio State’s bold scarlet jersey is accompanied by gray sleeve and collar accents that provide a retro look high in contrast. An inscription of the year “1961” on the inner neckline, socks and sleeves act as a silent reminder of the indisputable determination of that year’s lineup. A steel gray baselayer and matching arm sleeves feature a print reminiscent of a buckeye tree.  These two pieces are patterned after Buckeye Grove – home to a collection of buckeye trees planted in honor of each first team All-American player, like Ferguson, whose presence always commanded respect. Dark gray pants complement the baselayer design, emblazoned with a prominent block ‘O’ on the hip alongside a scarlet streak on the pant leg.

While also honoring past Buckeye triumphs, the new Nike Pro Combat system of dress pairs unmatched technology and distinguished design. The integrated uniform system provides enhanced durability and innovation to withstand the hard hits of today’s game. With Nike Pro Combat Deflex padding incorporated into the hip and knee areas and Flywire technology in the collar, the OSU uniform’s stay-put impact protection will keep players’ focus squarely on the next play.

Nike also released versions of their “pro-combat” series for Michigan State, LSU, Stanford (whose helmet I really like), Army, and Navy.

Here’s the promo video-