For this year’s edition of “Hard Knocks”, HBO decided to switch it up by centering on both the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers. It will mark the first time in the series’ history that a season will feature two teams at the same time.
The Rams and Chargers are proceeding with the final steps of relocation leading up to their 2020 season debuts at SoFi Stadium, making them a natural pairing.
Despite the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic putting training camp and the preseason in jeopardy, it appears Hard Knocks will still go on as scheduled. The show released their official trailer for the series, via their official Youtube:
The NFL then released another trailer, as well as a seen featuring Sean Mcvay, to continue to build hype:
Next week. 👀 @RamsNFL @Chargers
Hard Knocks: Los Angeles starts August 11 on @HBO. pic.twitter.com/5MEm6gOEEB
— NFL (@NFL) August 3, 2020
Nothing says 2020 more than Sean McVay’s new look at training camp.
#HardKnocksNow pic.twitter.com/9bzQhwphmn— NFL Films (@NFLFilms) August 3, 2020
The Rams find themselves in familiar territory after they were featured on the 2016 iteration of the show following their move from St. Louis. Fortunately, they will have the benefit of sharing the spotlight alongside a Chargers team that continues to try and make their presence felt after their departure from San Diego.
Both teams have made sure to take full advantage of having neighbors to compete with in training camp since the Chargers’ arrival prior to the 2017 campaign. Although the restrictions placed in response to the coronavirus pandemic limit their opportunities for a joint practice, it will be interesting to see if any more moments like these are replicated:
Five minutes into 1-on-1's and the "Fight for LA" has begun #RamsCamp pic.twitter.com/GQ4tEP2kat
— Maximo Blu Gonzales (@BluMambaSports) August 10, 2017
Aside from preparing for a season amid an ongoing pandemic, each team is carrying a number of intriguing storylines heading into camp. The Rams have ushered in some significant changes to both their roster and coaching staff in an effort to spark a potential resurgence while the Chargers welcome the arrival of the No. 6 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft in quarterback Justin Herbert.
