Houston Cougars To Wear Oilers-Inspired Alternate Uniforms

*Photos courtesy of University of Houston Athletics.*

The Tennessee Titans won’t be the only team wearing “Luv Ya Blue” this season, as the Houston Cougars unveiled Oilers-inspired alternate uniforms for Saturday’s game against UTSA, which kicks off at 7 p.m. ET on FS1.

Love you, Houston. This one is for you. #GoCoogs | #TEAM pic.twitter.com/X2Ul4SWwf5
— Houston Football (@UHCougarFB) August 31, 2023

The Cougars’ white helmets feature a light blue and red striping pattern similar to what the Oilers wore from 1975-98, although they’re more compact than the original design.

The helmets also include a red facemask and a light blue “Houston” wordmark with white and red strokes on the sides, matching the design of the vintage oil derrick logo on the Oilers’ lids.

That wordmark is displayed on the chest of the light blue jerseys, which include white numbers outlined in red and the aforementioned striping pattern on the sleeves, though they were originally on the Oilers’ cuffs.

The uniform is complete with white pants with light blue and red stripes down the sides, which means the only thing missing from the “Luv Ya Blue” tribute is the light blue socks.

Founded in 1960, the Oilers spent 37 seasons in Houston before moving to Tennessee in 1997, keeping their nickname for two more years before becoming the Titans in 1999.

While Houston was subsequently awarded an expansion franchise in the Texans, who began play in 2002, the Oilers’ history – including the light blue and red color scheme – remained with the Titans.

That’s why the Titans will wear Oilers throwback uniforms for two games this season, including their Dec. 17 matchup with the Texans, despite fans in Houston claiming rightful ownership of the design.