"Hard Knocks: The Dallas Cowboys" (2021 release; 5 episodes of about 55 min. Each) is the latest in the long-running HBO series on an NFL team's training camp. This year we get an inside look at the Dallas Cowboys' training camp. As Episode 1 opens, we see the big scar that is on Dak Prescott's right ankle, the result of not one but two surgeries following a gruesome injury in October, 2020. Dak also comments in passing on his brother's suicide last year, and that it's been a tough going overall. As training camp in California opens, huge crowds are gathering. Life is back to normal. Right? At this point we are less than 10 minutes into Episode 1.
Couple of comments: while "Hard Knocks" hasn't appeared in every single season, this year does mark the 20th anniversary of the first season that ran in 2001 (featuring the Baltimore Ravens). This is the 3rd time that it features the Dallas Cowboys a/k/a "America's Team" (whether that is really the case or not, one thing we do know for sure: Forbes has declared them to be the most valuable sports team in the world--worth a cool $5.7 billion). The focus in Episode 1 is on Dak Prescott front and center: can he retake his place as the team's starting QB? Watch how the Cowboys staff limit his reps as training camp gets underway, much to Dak's frustration as he just wants to play as much as possible. Meanwhile owner (and GM) Jerry Jones declares that he's willing to do anything in order to reach the Super Bowl (we are reminded it's been 26 years since the Cowboys' last SB appearance). Along the way we have some fun with RB Ezekiel Elliot (trying the giftwrap a birthday present for Dak). Bottom line: if you are a football fan and are hungry for the NFL season to start, this is about as good as it gets. The cameras of Hard Knocks seemingly have unfettered access to the team and hence nothing goes unnoticed, no matter how big or small in importance, which is of course why Hard Knocks has done so well of the years.
Episode 1 of this year's Hard Knocks premiered earlier this week on HBO and is now available on HBO On Demand, HBO Max and other streaming services. New episodes air on Tuesdays at 10 pm Eastern. If you are a football fan, regardless which NFL team you support, I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion. (Who Dey, go Bengals!)