The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are getting closer to finally ending their 14-game local television blackout streak, as team officials announced Tuesday that about 2,000 tickets remain for the Monday night showdown with the Indianapolis Colts.
ESPN's flagship program always generates a sizable amount of buzz, and even without Peyton Manning, the Colts, who are making just their second trip to Tampa, represent a marquee matchup for an up and coming club looking to show they belong back in primetime. The Bucs have gone almost three years since their last national exposure, a Monday night loss to Carolina in Dec. 2008.
There had been optimism that the Monday Night Football game might spark interest in a struggling fanbase even before the season began, and a 2-1 record, including a signature victory over division rival Atlanta, has certainly helped build excitement around this young team.
The Buccaneers will also host the Dallas Cowboys under the lights at Raymond James Stadium, on Dec. 17th at 8:30pm. The club believes that contest may also avoid blackout purgatory.