HBO's Hard Knocks is the can't-miss television event for die-hard football fans everywhere. The inside-look into what it takes to make an NFL team, what training camp is like, and how to balance life outside football captivates audiences every year. The Oakland Raiders are the show's focal point for the 2019 preseason, and let's just say, the storylines are already getting weird.
But what about college football? Sure, student-athletes don't get paid, but that doesn't stop universities from gobbling up as much money as possible and exploiting kids while they can. The calls for HBO to make the jump into the "amateur" game appear to be answered, and the latest reports could set up for an incredible new show.
First reported by DevilsDigest.com and later confirmed by ESPN, HBO is in negotiations with four college football programs to re-invent the long-running show. According to reports, the four teams talking about joining forces with HBO are all slam dunks if this really comes together.
- Alabama Crimson Tide
- Arizona State Sun Devils
- Penn State Nittany Lions
- Washington State Cougars
Six-time national championship winning coach Nick Saban. A dynasty that never quits. Enough talent to fill an entire All-Conference roster on its own. Picking the Alabama Crimson Tide for a behind-the-scenes look in Tuscaloosa is a no-brainer, but they're only part of this equation.
At Penn State University, football is religion. Coach James Franklin is one of the most charismatic leaders in the country, and his program is on the cusp of being a College Football Playoff contender. The school is officially clear of the Jerry Sandusky scandal, but can they make the next jump to become elite once again?
With Herm Edwards rebuilding the ASU football team, that would be unbelievable television. The veteran head coach is smart, personable and loves the cameras. Imagine putting HBO behind the scenes at Sun Devil Stadium?
As for the Washington State Cougars, there's only one man you need to worry about, and that's the incomparable Mike Leach.
If you've never seen the Netflix original series Last Chance U, then I would suggest starting there for a taste at what college programs are like behind the curtain.
Four programs in different corners of the country, coming together for an incredible television event. Negotiations are still early on and HBO has yet to announce official plans, but this new Hard Knocks-style show would be a huge success that'll keep me glued to the television every single week.
And that's not just because I have Penn State's blue and white colors running through my veins. (Just kidding. That's exactly why.)
