Penn State to remove names from back of football jerseys

Penn State will remove football players' names from the back of jerseys this season, the school announced Thursday.

The decision, the school said, was made "to pay homage to the history of Penn State football and return to the tradition that represented Penn State for 125 years."

The names were added to the back of the jerseys during the 2012 season by then-head coach Bill O'Brien in recognition of players who stuck with the program following the scandal involving former coach Jerry Sandusky that came to light in 2011.

Statement from head coach James Franklin:

"For 125 years Penn State proudly followed a very simple idea: "Black Shoes. Basic Blues. No Names. All Game."

"In 2012, for the first time in the program's history, names adorned the back of the jersey to forever identify the men who stayed loyal, sacrificed & chose to play for this institution during the most difficult of times. The 2012 team, permanently recognized in Beaver Stadium, will hold an enduring place in our program's history. Their commitment will never be forgotten.

"However, it's time we bring back the tradition that represented Penn State for 125 years. We are a strong family, playing for one goal, one university and there is only one name that truly matters, Penn State.

"We Are."

The Nittany Lions open the season on the road against Temple at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Sept. 5 at 3:30 p.m. ET.

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