The Tennessee Titans’ decision to don the classic Houston Oilers uniforms has sparked curiosity among fans. In fact, some might wonder why they don’t make this a permanent change. The Titans will be sporting these throwback Oilers uniforms for their game against the Atlanta Falcons, as part of the Oilers/Titans Alumni Weekend. The team plans to bring back these iconic uniforms once more when they face the Houston Texans on December 17.
This nostalgic move is bound to stir up memories of legendary Houston Oilers players like Earl Campbell, Billy “White Shoes” Johnson from the 1970s, and the illustrious Warren Moon from the 1980s and 1990s.
Warren Moon himself expressed enthusiasm for the idea of the Titans donning these Oilers uniforms in both matchups against the Texans – once in Houston for the local fans, and again in Tennessee for the home crowd to relish.
Now, let’s delve into the history behind this choice of uniforms.
The Houston Oilers were a prominent team in the AFL from 1960 to 1969, before making the transition to the NFL. They continued playing in the NFL until their relocation to Nashville, Tennessee, in 1996. From 1997 to 1998, the franchise was known as the Tennessee Oilers, and they proudly sported the Oilers’ uniforms during their tenure in Tennessee. This period saw the likes of coach Jeff Fisher, Steve McNair, and Eddie George leading the team, with both seasons ending in an 8-8 record.
In 1999, the franchise officially adopted the name Tennessee Titans, but Fisher, McNair, and George remained instrumental figures for the team.
So, why are these Oilers’ throwback uniforms so cherished? The enduring appeal lies in the distinctive Columbia blue jerseys complemented by red trim around white numbers. The white helmet is adorned with an oil derrick, and the throwback jerseys pay tribute to the memorable 1970s era with “Luv Ya Blue” emblazoned on the neckline. This nod to the past recalls the era of coach Bum Phillips and the powerful presence of Earl Campbell. The Oilers adopted these uniforms in 1975, initiating a successful run that included two consecutive AFC championship game appearances in 1978 and 1979.
These uniforms also evoke the high-octane “Run-and-shoot” period associated with Warren Moon. The Oilers showcased one of the most exhilarating offenses in the NFL, reaching the AFC playoffs for seven consecutive seasons from 1987 to 1993. Over that span, Houston consistently ranked among the top seven teams in points scored.
The last time the Titans wore these Oilers jerseys dates back to November 15, 2009, when they secured a decisive 41-17 victory against the Buffalo Bills. Chris Johnson’s spectacular performance, amassing 132 rushing yards and two touchdowns, along with Vince Young’s 210 passing yards, sealed the memorable win.
December 26, 1998, marked the final occasion when the Titans donned these iconic uniforms. In a game against the Minnesota Vikings, the Oilers faced a tough 26-16 defeat. Randall Cunningham’s touchdown passes to Cris Carter and Randy Moss sealed the game for the Vikings.
Fans can eagerly anticipate witnessing the Titans revive the historic Houston Oilers uniforms in their AFC South showdown against the Houston Texans on December 17. This match promises to infuse a unique touch to the storied rivalry between these two teams. The Titans currently hold a 23-19 edge over the Texans in their all-time series.