The Tennessee Titans are donning the classic Houston Oilers jerseys, but why only on special occasions? They’re showcasing these throwback uniforms against the Atlanta Falcons as part of the Oilers/Titans Alumni Weekend and will do so again when facing the Houston Texans on December 17. This nostalgic choice evokes memories of legendary Houston Oilers like Earl Campbell, Billy “White Shoes” Johnson from the 1970s, and Warren Moon from the 1980s and 1990s. Moon even hopes they’ll wear them both times, once in Houston for the local fans and, of course, in Tennessee for their dedicated supporters.
So, why are the Titans embracing the Oilers jerseys now? Let’s delve into the history of these uniforms.
The Houston Oilers initially played in the AFL from 1960-69 before transitioning to the NFL. After relocating to Tennessee in 1996, they briefly became the Tennessee Oilers from 1997-98, still sporting the iconic Oilers’ uniforms. This period featured notable figures like coach Jeff Fisher, Steve McNair, and Eddie George.
In 1999, the team rebranded itself as the Tennessee Titans, but the legacy of those Oilers’ throwback uniforms endures. These uniforms are beloved due to their iconic Columbia blue jerseys with red trim around white numbers, and the white helmet adorned with an oil derrick. The throwback jerseys even bear the inscription “Luv Ya Blue” on the neckline, paying tribute to the 1970s teams led by coach Bum Phillips and Earl Campbell, which wore these uniforms from 1975. During this era, the Oilers enjoyed success, finishing 55-35 from 1975-80 and making back-to-back AFC championship game appearances in 1978 and 1979.
These uniforms also harken back to the electrifying “Run-and-shoot” era with Warren Moon. The Oilers’ high-octane offense secured seven consecutive AFC playoff appearances from 1987-93, ranking among the top teams in points scored over this period.
🎥 Take a look behind the scenes of the Oilers uniform reveal pic.twitter.com/pRtcQtBAqk
— Titans (Oilers Version) (@Titans) October 26, 2023
While it’s not the first time the Titans have worn Oilers jerseys, this is the first instance since the franchise was rebranded as the Titans. The last time was on December 26, 1998, when the Minnesota Vikings defeated the Oilers 26-16.
As for the upcoming showdown against the Houston Texans on December 17, the Titans will again sport the Houston Oilers uniforms, adding an intriguing historical touch to their AFC South rivalry. The Texans, founded as an expansion team in 2002, have had their share of playoff appearances and a competitive rivalry with the Titans, who hold a 23-19 lead in the all-time series. The throwback uniforms are sure to make this matchup even more interesting.
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