Training camp is more than halfway over. The Buccaneers will have three more open practices on August 22nd, 23rd and 24th before breaking camp on the 25th. With that, Hard Knocks is reaching it's halfway point, too. The third episode of the five-part series will air on Tuesday night on HBO. Here are a few things that we hope make the third episode.
- Some love for Kwon: For the second week in a row, we're hoping to see more of the Buccaneers' standout middle linebacker on Hard Knocks. Alexander is one of the Buccaneers' most dynamic players and one of their most outspoken personalities, but he hasn't had much face time thus far. Hopefully Episode 3 features much more of Alexander.
- Ryan Smith's journey: Smith was the Buccaneers' fourth-round draft pick a year ago out of a small school and has steadily risen to a key position within the team's defense. Smith played safety as a rookie, but saw most of his action on special teams. He was moved to corner for his sophomore season and has been working with the starters as Brent Grimes recovers from a minor injury. Head Coach Dirk Koetter has spoken about Smiths' development during his press conferences this week, so it wouldn't be a surprise to see Smith featured on Hard Knocks.
- A look inside the kicking competition: The focal point of Episode 2 was the Buccaneers' decision to release Roberto Aguayo. The move seemingly put Nick Folk in line to be the team's kicker for the 2017 season. But Folk's first point after attempt was blocked and he missed his only field goal attempt longer than 40 yards in the Buccaneers' preseason victory over Jacksonville. It would be interesting to see what the internal conversation is like regarding the kicking situation.
- Kendell Beckwith's first start: The fact that Beckwith is even on the field right now is impressive by itself. He suffered a torn ACL last November, but was able to report to training camp fully cleared and has not missed a practice since. Beckwith was battling with Davonte Bond for the starting SAM job and, with Bond recovering from an injury, got his first start of his NFL career against the Jaguars. Don't be surprised to see it covered on Hard Knocks.
