UCF has donned quite a few different military appreciation uniforms over the years. From the memorable (maybe not for the right reasons) combo of gold/anthracite/black in 2016 to the incredibly sleek Black Ops look we saw last season, the Knights always find a way to do something new.
This year, UCF is once again breaking out a new look, including a brand-new helmet stripe. The Knights will be going with white helmets to pair with anthracite jerseys and pants in a tough look that will let the shimmering red-white-and-blue UCF decal pop nicely in the afternoon light against UConn.
The new helmet stripe also mimics the American flag, transitioning from blue with six stars representing each military branch at the front of the helmet to red and white stripes down the center. The back of the decal includes the names of each branch interspersed among stars. Players will also represent the branch of their choice on the back bumper of their helmets.
There's definitely a debate to be had over what the best military look is for UCF. It's easy to settle on the all-pewter look of 2017, with the gray background to the patriotic decals giving off a strong military vibe. But, as 2019's combo showed us, the American flag UCF truly looks its best on a white background. Combining that helmet with another set of gray jerseys and pants may bring this all together to be the strongest military uniform that the Knights have worn so far.
The updated decals will also make this the seventh new helmet design of 2021. Given that all those looks have come on one shell, it's really just an awesome testament to UCF's creativity and ability to continuously develop great new looks. From chrome face masks to script logos, fans have gotten some great new helmets this year.
Combo Trivia
- UCF has now worn six military helmets. Three have been against UConn.
- This is the first non-space game since 2016 where the Knights are donning a helmet stripe that isn't the traditional sword pattern.
- UCF continues its streak of wearing a brand-new look in every game this season.
- This is the first time the Knights will wear a dark jersey since Oct. 9.
- UCF has now worn anthracite jerseys multiple times in the same season for the first time since 2019.
Uniform Records Since 2016
- White Helmet: 19-8
- Anthracite Jersey: 9-3
- Anthracite Pants: 9-1
- Military Game: 5-0