Dubbed 'Operation Visine' (to 'get the red out'), this precursor to the modern White Out worked, as there was not only record attendance, most of whom were Penn State fans, but the Nittany Lions upset #7 Nebraska 40–7. An email began to be circulated amongst Penn State fans to both wear blue to the game and not to sell their tickets to Cornhusker fans.

In 2002, leading up to a much hyped up game against Nebraska, there was a fear that a 'Sea of Red' would overtake the stands in Beaver Stadium. The White Out is the football program’s premier home event, and as such, it frequently touts some of Penn State’s biggest rivalries, non-conference opponents, and highly rated recruiting opportunities. Six other teams have each made a single appearance, of which only three were not members of the Big Ten Conference. Iowa is the third team to make multiple appearances, currently with two. Ohio State has appeared in the second most with five. Michigan has appeared in the most White Out games, currently sitting at six. During these games, Zombie Nation's Kernkraft 400 is often played after a big play. All White Out games are showcased with an advanced fireworks display lining the east and west (long ends) of Beaver Stadium. It has been described as 'the best atmosphere in college football.' It is also among the most expensive regular season games of college football, with ticket prices ranging upwards of $250. The White Out is a tradition at the Pennsylvania State University during select Nittany Lions home football games, where all spectators come dressed in white. Not to be confused with Winnipeg White out.

Penn state white out 2021 tickets