Tony White was asked about the blackshirt tradition early in fall camp. The first year defensive coordinator didn’t miss a beat. “The most important thing I can do with that tradition is acknowledge it. I have to talk to people who have instilled, who have lived, who have done it the right way. I’ve heard many different ways they have done it, from bringing old guys back, taking it away, waiting a couple of games, do it fall camp. I’ve heard a lot of different things already.” He said. “I think it’s one of the best traditions in college football.”
The Nebraska Blackshirts have a storied history deeply rooted in the tradition of excellence and defensive prowess within the University of Nebraska’s football program. Originating in the 1960s under head coach Bob Devaney, the Blackshirts earned their name from the black practice jerseys awarded to the defensive starters. Over the decades, the Blackshirts have become synonymous with tenacity, discipline, and dominance on the gridiron.
For the last decade, however, the Blackshirt moniker has become a running joke among college football. Since 2011, Nebraska has finished the season with an average ranking of 60th in total defense. In that time frame they have given up record yards, points, and individual records. Teams no longer feared playing the Huskers.
Tony White and the 3-3-5 Defense
When Matt Rhule got to Nebraska, reviving the Blackshirts was one of his tallest tasks. Immediately recognizing the need for a modern defensive approach, Rhule hired Tony White to implement his version of the 3-3-5 scheme. Unlike traditional defensive formations, which often rely on four down linemen or four linebackers, White’s scheme features three linemen, three linebackers, and five defensive backs, providing versatility and flexibility against today’s multifaceted offenses.
One of the key principles of White’s 3-3-5 defense is its adaptability. By employing a hybrid system that combines elements of both a 3-4 and a 4-3 defense, Nebraska can seamlessly adjust to different offensive schemes and personnel groupings. This flexibility allows the Cornhuskers to dictate the pace of the game and keep opposing offenses off balance.
Furthermore, the 3-3-5 formation enables Nebraska to generate pressure on the quarterback from multiple angles. By utilizing creative blitz packages and stunts, White keeps opposing quarterbacks guessing and disrupts their rhythm in the pocket. This aggressive approach has resulted in an uptick in sacks and turnovers, shifting momentum in favor of the Cornhuskers.
In Tony White’s inaugural season as defensive coordinator, the Cornhuskers’ defense saw a significant improvement in nearly every statistical category. Finishing the 2023 season ranked 11th in total defense, the Blackshirts also ranked among the top in their conference in points allowed and turnovers forced, a testament to the effectiveness of White’s defensive scheme.
2024 and Beyond
White’s impact extends beyond the gridiron. His passion for teaching and mentorship has inspired countless young athletes, both on and off the field. He emphasizes the importance of discipline, hard work, and perseverance, instilling invaluable life lessons in his players that extend far beyond their football careers.
These traits have landed him on many athletic directors short list of head coaching candidates. San Diego State and Tony White’s Alma Mater UCLA both contacted him when they were looking to fill their head coaching vacancies, but in the end Nebraska was able to restructure his contract and keep him here.
“Tony had never worked with us before, but he believes in what we are doing, he believes in the way we’re doing it.” Rhule said in a recent interview. “He’s a great fit for us and he’s a great coach. Has a great scheme and I’m looking forward to seeing year two of it.” Rhule continued.
“I was excited to have him back. Even if it’s just for one more year and I hope it’s ten years. We have some great young coaches on defense. I wanted them to have one more year seeing how he does it, then I think Nebraska’s defense will be off and running for a long time.”
-Matt Rhule on retaining Defensive Coordinator Tony White
As Nebraska continues to refine and perfect the 3-3-5 defensive scheme under Tony White’s guidance, the future looks bright for the Cornhuskers’ defense. With a renewed sense of confidence and a relentless pursuit of excellence, the Blackshirts are poised to become a dominant force in the college football landscape once again.
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