Bowling Green, KY, October 9, 2025
News Summary
Western Kentucky University has revealed its new helmet designs featuring the beloved mascot Big Red for the upcoming football season. This marks the fourth year WKU has introduced Big Red helmets, with seven unique designs showcasing the mascot in various football positions. The helmets will debut during a nationally televised game, highlighting WKU’s school spirit and engaging fans in upcoming Red Out nights. The new designs aim to enhance the excitement surrounding WKU’s football program and its history.
Bowling Green, KY
Western Kentucky University (WKU) has unveiled new helmets featuring the beloved mascot, Big Red, for the upcoming 2023 football season. This marks the fourth consecutive year WKU has introduced Big Red helmets. The latest design includes seven different helmets, each depicting Big Red in various football positions.
The new helmets will debut during a nationally televised game against Florida International University (FIU) on October 14, 2023. The design showcases Big Red performing the “Zombieland” celebration, which originated at WKU in 2022 and has since gained popularity in the NFL. The Hilltoppers first incorporated Big Red into their helmet designs in 2022, and since then, fans have eagerly awaited each new installment.
Previously, Big Red helmet designs included portraits of the mascot, while the current year’s concept is focused on position-specific portrayals. For instance, Big Red‘s eyes and eyebrows were featured on the side of an alternate helmet during a 2022 game against UTEP. The new helmets are part of a broader uniform update that includes the addition of stripes on jerseys and pants, as well as a “Tops” script logo under the belt.
A skit featuring inside linebacker Anthony Brackenridge introduced the new helmets and celebrated the history of Big Red and the team’s uniform designs. During the October 14 game, the Big Red helmet will be worn with a uniform that includes black jerseys and black pants.
WKU aims to enhance fan experience by encouraging supporters to participate on “Red Out” nights, where fans are asked to wear red to the games. The new helmets are expected to leverage the excitement surrounding WKU’s football program and its iconic mascot. Big Red has been celebrated since its debut in 1979 and continues to foster a strong sense of community and school spirit.
Key Features of the 2023 Big Red Helmets
- Features Big Red in various football positions across seven different helmets.
- Debuts against FIU on October 14, 2023.
- Showcases the “Zombieland” celebration which gained popularity in the NFL.
- Includes a uniform update with black jerseys and pants.
- Encouragement for fans to participate in “Red Out” nights.
History of Big Red at WKU
Big Red has been a symbol of WKU since its introduction in 1979. Over the years, the beloved mascot has grown into an integral part of the Hilltopper football culture. Each year’s helmet designs not only honor Big Red but also showcase the creativity and engagement of WKU’s athletic programs.
Fan Engagement
The initiative to have fans wear red during games aims to create a vibrant atmosphere and unify supporters under the Hilltopper banner. By incentivizing participation on “Red Out” nights, WKU seeks to strengthen community ties and promote a sense of pride among fans.
FAQ Section
What unique feature do the new WKU helmets include?
The 2023 design includes seven different helmets, each depicting Big Red in various football positions.
When will the new helmets debut?
The new helmets will debut during a nationally televised game against Florida International University (FIU) on October 14, 2023.
What celebration is featured on the new helmets?
The latest design showcases Big Red performing the “Zombieland” celebration, which originated at WKU in 2022 and gained popularity in the NFL.
What type of uniforms will the new helmets be worn with?
The Big Red helmet will be worn with a uniform that includes black jerseys and black pants during the October 14 game.
How has the use of Big Red in helmets evolved?
The Hilltoppers first incorporated Big Red into their helmet designs in 2022, with previous designs focusing on portraits of the mascot while the current year’s concept is position-specific.
Chart: Key Features of New Big Red Helmets
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Design | Seven different helmets depicting Big Red in various football positions. |
| Debut Date | October 14, 2023, against FIU. |
| Celebration Featured | “Zombieland” celebration originated at WKU in 2022. |
| Uniforms | Black jerseys and black pants. |
| Community Engagement | Encourages fans to participate on “Red Out” nights. |
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