Not every fan who bought tickets for Bucs games this season will be able to be re-seatedGETTY IMAGES
The Tampa Sports Authority is working under the assumption that Buccaneers games "would have crowds of about 14,000 people" at Raymond James Stadium for this season, according to Matt Baker of the TAMPA BAY TIMES. USF, which shares Raymond James Stadium with the Bucs, "would have about 10,000 spectators" at its games. The projections from the TSA also "assumed that the stadium will continue to operate at reduced capacity through the end of the year before returning to more normal levels in January." TSA VP/Marketing & Communications Bobby Silvest said, "With all the uncertainty during these unprecedented times, all we can do is make conservative estimates. We don't know what capacity will be for Bucs or USF at this time." Baker notes the Bucs "have said they won't be able to re-seat everyone who has already purchased tickets for Tom Brady's first season." The team "does plan to tarp off the lower bowl's first seven rows" (TAMPA BAY TIMES, 8/6).
NEW NORMAL: In Tampa, Eduardo Encina notes the Bucs are "taking extra precautions, including sequestering part of an area hotel for players who want to remain isolated in a simulated bubble-type atmosphere" during training camp. A bus "takes players who stay there to and from the facility." Inside the facility, "no space is unused." Full-squad meetings, which used to be held inside the team auditorium, are "now held in the indoor facility," where coach Bruce Arians has to "use a TV screen and microphone to talk to his players." Position groups "were relocated to larger rooms where they can spread out." Some weights and training equipment "have been moved outside under a tent." Players have to "spread out while eating, which forces some to eat outside." Players and staff are "tested daily" (TAMPA BAY TIMES, 8/6).
