The Battle of the Bluegrass became even more intense than the rivalry already was, as a uniform change for Western Kentucky came after a bold move by Eastern Kentucky the week of their matchup.
WKU planned to have a “white” game on Saturday, but the Hilltoppers will switch to their red jerseys after EKU decided to wear white uniforms.
It is EKU's right to choose to wear white uniforms as the visiting team, and NCAA rules require both teams to agree to a possible uniform change prior to kickoff.
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The Hilltoppers issued a statement on the matter, taking a slight dig at their rival by saying how long the plan to have them wear white for their home opener has been in discussion.
“We announced our football game themes and promotions for the 2024 season on July 10, with Saturday's home opener themed 'White Offside.' Each season, we wear white helmets, uniforms and pants for our annual White Offside game,” the statement read.
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“However, EKU informed us on Tuesday of this week that they would be exercising their right as the visiting team to wear white uniforms, which would require us to wear red jerseys on Saturday. Under NCAA rules, both teams must agree to a uniform change. We had hoped that EKU would agree to allow us to wear the white uniform on Saturday, as many other opponents have done in previous years.”
The Hilltoppers continue to encourage fans to attend Houchens Industries-LT Smith Stadium in their all-white uniforms despite the team not wearing their jerseys as such.
Meanwhile, to add even more pettiness to EKU's decision, they posted the exact uniforms that will be worn while promoting the Battle of the Bluegrass.
The Colonels sport an all-white look on their pants and jersey, with their maroon and white helmets.
WKU is favored in this matchup despite being routed by Alabama 63-0 in its season opener. EKU was similarly dominated in its season opener, 56-7, when it lost to Mississippi State.
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This will be the first time the Battle of the Bluegrass has been played since 2017, when WKU moved from FCS to FBS football.
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