LINCOLN, NEB. ? Upon his arrival at Nebraska, defensive coordinator Bo Pelini admitted he knew little about the Blackshirt tradition.

After nine games in the Big Red fold, Pelini understands the black jerseys Husker defenders wear in practice stand for excellence.

That’s why Nebraska players are preparing this week for Saturday’s game against Kansas University without black jerseys, a result of their lackluster showing in Saturday’s 31-7 loss at Texas.

“Coach made the point that it’s not just a jersey you wear in practice, it’s supposed to represent how you play and perform every week,” middle linebacker Barrett Ruud said.

Texas rang up 481 yards of offense against the Huskers.

“We didn’t perform well at all, so we really don’t deserve to wear the (black) jerseys,” Ruud said. “I think it was probably the right move to make.”

Linebacker T.J. Hollowell said Pelini put a “gag order” on public discussion about the black jersey ban.