ESPY
Starter
That's actually not the academic "N". That is the athletic department "N". Nebraska is one of the few universities that's used 2 different fonts to brand itself. Argument aside, you make a valid point about Nebraska deciding to use this new look helmet for the sake of consistent branding, and with the move to the Big Ten, it makes sense to do this change of branding starting now.The all-red I couldn't imagine liking too much, but from a branding point of view, the academic "N" is much better for the university's recognition (especially on television; it stands out) than the simplistic practice-squad N. The academic looking N is already the brand of all other aspects of the university. It makes perfect sense, but again, it is a matter of taste and tradition. Personally, I prefer the simple N, but I don't think the new one - if it is indeed the new one - is bad at all either.
Actually this is the official "N" of the university...I'm going to go against the grain on this one. I think the new helmets look awesome. And like some have already mentioned, it is the official "N" of the university.

Notice the academic "N" (white) is inside of/on top of the athletic "N"
Personally, I couldn't agree more, especially when you compare this new look to Wisconsin's helmets (eeeesh). I love the helmet as is. Even though the change makes sense for branding and advertising purposes for the university, I think you gotta stick with tradition on this one.The new N looks exactly like what wiconsin or Minnesota or purpue have in the big 10: a great big ol sticker slapped on the side of the helmet. I think it looks overdone. Pleeeeease keep the small sticker