North Texas sends cease and desists over ESPN, Michigan State using 'Mean Green'
North Texas might not play in one of the Power 5 conferences, but the school showed Tuesday that it's not afraid to take on one of the nation's big programs off the field.
The school's athletic director, Wren Baker, says he'll be sending cease-and-desist letters to ESPN and Michigan State over use of the term "Mean Green," which is the nickname for North Texas athletics.
North Texas athletic director Wren Baker tweeted the news with a screenshot of a promo that ESPN is running for Saturday's Michigan-Michigan State game, in which the Spartans are given the "Mean Green" moniker.
Hey @espn & @MSU_Athletics , without a doubt @MeanGreenSports is the hottest athletic dept in the country. BUT you can’t just try to steal #MeanGreen. It’s trademarked and has been for a very, very long time. Cease and desist letter on the way. https://t.co/7g69KeEm0T
— Wren Baker (@wrenbaker) October 4, 2017
He confirmed to USA Today's Dan Wolken that the letters would go out Wednesday.
Baker will have the time to watch Saturday's contest between the in-state rivals, as North Texas is on a bye this week.