The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced Tuesday an adjustment to the game theme for the September 29 home game against the Arizona Cardinals. This change will ensure compliance with a new league policy that restricts the use of alternate player helmets. The league-wide guideline, which requires players to use the same helmet for all games during the season, was recently implemented based on the strong recommendation by the NFL's Head, Neck and Spine Committee as well as the Player Safety Advisory Panel.
The change does not affect the team's Hispanic Heritage Day celebration which has been scheduled as part of the NFL's Hispanic Heritage Month festivities. Fans attending the game will be treated to special themed events and activities designed to celebrate the region's strong Hispanic roots. Due to the new regulations, Buccaneer players will wear their standard pewter, red and white uniforms in place of the classic Florida orange, red and white throwback attire that had previously been scheduled.
"We are excited to celebrate and honor the Hispanic heritage that has had such a profound impact on our community," said Buccaneers Chief Operating Officer Brian Ford. "While we regret that our players will not be able to don the 'Bucco Bruce' helmet and traditional orange, red and white uniforms, there simply was no acceptable way to meet the requirements of the new policy while staying true to the spirit of our throwback theme. We will continue to explore options with the league office for bringing back this fan favorite in future seasons."
