Penn State reportedly tried to block Ohio State's all-gray uniforms

Penn State tried to force Ohio State to retire its alternate jerseys for Saturday’s game before ever being worn.

According to Jordan Strack of WTOL-11 in Toledo, Ohio, the Nittany Lions tried to block Ohio State from wearing the all-gray jerseys because the colors on the jersey and the numbers were too similar.

Penn State was trying to block Ohio State’s ability to wear the all-gray because the colors on jersey & numbers were too similar.

— Jordan Strack (@JordanStrack) October 23, 2017

Strack also reported that Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith got involved to ensure the Buckeyes would be able to sport the new look.

I was told that Gene Smith got involved as late as last night & got it approved.

— Jordan Strack (@JordanStrack) October 23, 2017

The NCAA rulebook states that a jersey must have numbers that “clearly contrast with the body of the jersey,”  and the number must be “visible from a significant distance.” If neither of the criteria are met, the uniform may not be worn.

Here are images of the uniform the Buckeyes plan to wear Saturday:

🔜#GoBucks #BeatPSU pic.twitter.com/RVRsLNmFsh

— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) October 23, 2017

Technically, the jersey and the numbers are both gray, but there’s enough of a visible difference that Ohio State will be permitted to wear the uniform. The dark gray numbers contrasts pretty well with the lighter gray jersey.

So, despite Penn State’s best attempts, we’ll see the Buckeyes sporting the all-gray look on Saturday afternoon at 3:30.