The practical is money. A new set of helmets alone can cost up to $100,000, funds that he said would take away from other opportunities for athletes. For this week, UW is simply replacing decals on its existing helmets and swapping out red face masks for gray ones.

The historical is that, well, the Badgers have typically worn predictable combinations.

“There’s definitely a traditional element to it,” Amundson said. “We’ve never had a kid come here because he’s going to get to wear any fancy uniform. We’re pretty tried and true with our red and white.”

Coach Paul Chryst acquiesced to players’ wishes to change things up for last week’s victory against Michigan and wear the black shoes that were being broken in as part of the new design for this week.

“He was on board,” senior outside linebacker Zack Baun said. “He’s more happy to see the guys energized about it. He’s just happy that we’re happy.”

Other than Taylor, who was in on the plans for the alternate jersey because he wore it in the video shoot, players were unaware of the new look until fall camp.

Saying that the unveiling drew a positive reaction would be an understatement, Baun said.