For the first time ever, Penn State will add nameplates to the back of its jerseys in an effort to celebrate the players who have stayed with the team despite major NCAA sanctions being heaped on the school.
And now you can see those nameplates being added. Here's an excerpt from the release from the university:
Coach O'Brien says after speaking with some members of the team, they made the decision together to add names to the uniforms. Players indicated the names on their jerseys also mean they will hold each other accountable to uphold the traditions of Penn State football, both on and off the field.
"We want our fans to know and recognize these young men," O'Brien said. "They have stuck together during tough times, and I commend them for the leadership they have shown. Moving forward, I'm deeply committed to honoring Penn State's traditions, while building a bright future for our football program."
Normally, we wouldn't post something like this, but because it's such a historic moment, I thought it was worth showing. And it's pretty cool to watch how the names are added to the back of the uniforms.
Penn State has adopted the motto "#oneteam" this year and while adding names to the back of the jerseys might show some measure of individuality, in the mind of coach Bill O'Brien, those individuals are who drive the "#oneteam" moniker.
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