Penn State Football To Remove Names On Jerseys
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Penn State football head coach has decided to remove the names on the back of the blue and white iconic jerseys, he announced on Thursday.
The names were originally added to the jerseys before the 2012 season by Bill O'Brien. O'Brien properly decided to honor the players who decided to stay with the program after Penn State received harsh sanctions, following the horrific Jerry Sandusky scandal.
However, in September of 2014 the postseason ban was lifted and then in January of 2015 restored Joe Paterno's wins.
"For 125 years Penn State proudly followed a very simple idea: "Black Shoes. Basic Blues. No Names. All Game," Franklin said in a statement. "In 2012, for the first time in the program's history, names adorned the back of the jersey to forever identify the men who stayed loyal, sacrificed & chose to play for this institution during the most difficult of times. The 2012 team, permanently recognized in Beaver Stadium, will hold an enduring place in our program's history. Their commitment will never be forgotten.
"However, it's time we bring back the tradition that represented Penn State for 125 years. We are a strong family, playing for one goal, one university and there is only one name that truly matters, Penn State."
Penn State opens their season on Saturday, September 5th against Temple at Lincoln Financial Field.