Tampa Bay Buccaneers: ‘Hard Knocks’ start of Bucs’ hype machine
With HBO’s ‘Hard Knocks’ comes a golden opportunity for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are the all-star team no one has ever heard of. At least it seems that way. With talent teeming from every position, the Bucs are primed to make noise in the NFC South and entertaining television on HBO’s Hard Knocks.
Why are the Buccaneers not getting much hype? For starters, it probably has something to do with the division they play in. The Falcons, Saints, and Panthers have all had success in recent years. During that time, the Bucs have been left at the bottom of the proverbial food chain. Especially in the sporting world, once a player or a team gains traction and star power, it is difficult to lose.
Cam Newton is a great example. Despite his poor play last season, his name alone still has star power due to the success he has had in seasons’ past. Matt Ryan and Julio Jones were two of the most explosive playmakers in the NFL last year and were featured on the national stage in the Super Bowl. Drew Brees has won a Super Bowl and been featured in some of the NFL’s top statistical passing categories for many years.
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Each NFC South team has had their time to shine. That is, each team except the Buccaneers.
However, in just a little less than two months, that will change. Starting on Wednesday, Aug. 8, the team will be featured on HBO’s Hard Knocks, which will follow the team throughout the course of the preseason. For those who have never watched the show, it gives you an inside look at practices, team meetings, and follows certain players as they try to survive the grind of training camp.
This is perfect timing for Tampa Bay. I know I will be tuning in to watch Jameis Winston, DeSean Jackson and Mike Evans just to name a few. Dirk Koetter is one of the most intriguing, up-and-coming coaches in the league and to watch how he coaches his players will be interesting.
HBO could have several players that they could profile throughout the course of filming. In addition, HBO could form several interesting subplots throughout the show. The possibilities are endless.
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So much for being forgotten in a loaded division. Instead, Tampa Bay will be at center stage. It will be a nice change of pace for a team not normally accustomed to receiving national attention.