A Century of Stripes, Script, and Growls
The Missouri Tigers' football helmet is a canvas that tells the story of their gridiron journey, a century-long evolution marked by iconic elements and subtle shifts. Here's a glimpse into its history:
Early Days (1903-1957): Simple beginnings saw plain leather helmets sporting the "M" logo, a symbol adopted from the university band. Black and gold stripes, the team's colors, soon adorned the sides, adding a touch of visual identity.
The Block M Era (1957-2011): In 1957, the iconic "Block M" replaced the simple "M," becoming the helmet's dominant feature. Its bold lines and sharp angles became synonymous with the Tigers, a symbol of strength and tradition. The black and gold stripes remained, their thickness fluctuating over the years.
Experimentation and Change (2012-Present): The 21st century brought a spirit of experimentation. Tiger stripes grew thicker, then disappeared entirely for a brief period. The "Block M" saw its corners rounded and its color shifted from flat black to a textured metallic. Some helmets featured additional elements like paw prints or the state outline.
The Return of Tradition (2018-Present): In 2018, a sense of nostalgia led to a return to the classic design. The bold "Block M" stands proudly once again, framed by thick black and gold stripes. This design, a reminder of the program's rich history, remains the primary helmet today.
Early Days (1903-1957): Simple beginnings saw plain leather helmets sporting the "M" logo, a symbol adopted from the university band. Black and gold stripes, the team's colors, soon adorned the sides, adding a touch of visual identity.
The Block M Era (1957-2011): In 1957, the iconic "Block M" replaced the simple "M," becoming the helmet's dominant feature. Its bold lines and sharp angles became synonymous with the Tigers, a symbol of strength and tradition. The black and gold stripes remained, their thickness fluctuating over the years.
Experimentation and Change (2012-Present): The 21st century brought a spirit of experimentation. Tiger stripes grew thicker, then disappeared entirely for a brief period. The "Block M" saw its corners rounded and its color shifted from flat black to a textured metallic. Some helmets featured additional elements like paw prints or the state outline.
The Return of Tradition (2018-Present): In 2018, a sense of nostalgia led to a return to the classic design. The bold "Block M" stands proudly once again, framed by thick black and gold stripes. This design, a reminder of the program's rich history, remains the primary helmet today.
