The University of Houston football plans to keep in rotation a uniform that was introduced back in 2023 to honor the Houston Oilers despite the NFL's issuance of a cease-and-desist order.
Although the "Luv Ya Blue" uniform was supposed to make a limited appearance on the field, fans have since demanded it be kept in the rotation permanently.
According to SI.com, the NFL thinks otherwise, and contends the uniforms are a copy of the iconic Houston Oilers uniforms from the late 1970s. The NFL sent a cease-and-desist letter to the Cougars in October.
“The Houston Cougars’ attempt to free ride on the popularity of the NFL and the club violates the intellectual property rights of the NFL and (Tennessee) Titans,” said the letter.
The blue jersey features red and white stripes on the sleeves and is paired with a white helmet, which resembles the Oilers' uniforms.
Athletic Director Chris Pezman said that a new design was developed in response to the NFL’s letter. The new design included changes to several elements, including the stripes on the sleeves. However, there was no change in the colors, which is the biggest similarity to the old Oilers uniforms and the main objection by the NFL.
It remains unclear whether the NFL will press the issue in court after the changes.
