NFL announces creative last-ditch attempt to save Hard Knocks

The NFL is changing the script for Hard Knocks with an in-season edition featuring the Indianapolis Colts in their question for a spot in the playoffs.

The NFL’s Hard Knocks series is trying something new this season. Instead of staying an exclusively offseason production, they’re going to take a look at some in-season drama.

On Thursday, the NFL announced a new season of Hard Knocks focusing on the Indianapolis Colts. The series will follow the Colts as they attempt to reach the playoffs.

The first episode will premiere on Nov. 17 and it will continue through the end of the season. According to Stephen Holder of The Athletic, they are already filming.

Hard Knocks will follow the Colts during the season

Indianapolis isn’t exactly the team you’d pick to move the needle, but maybe they can draw eyeballs with Carson Wentz hoping to prove himself in his post-Eagles career.

In Week 1, Wentz went 25-of-38 for 251 yards and two touchdowns. However, he took three sacks and finished with a QBR of 27.5. Indianapolis lost 28-16 to the Seahawks. They’ll be looking for better results this week against the Rams, though it might not get any easier for awhile.

The NFL better hope the Colts are actually in the playoff race when episodes start airing because no one will want to watch a team bathing in mediocrity. That’s the risk they run. This could turn out to be the twist that saves the series, which has seen its ratings fall recently. It could also be the final nail in the coffin.

No pressure, Colts.