Although the complete uniform schedule has not been released yet, it has been announced that the Bucs will be wearing white uniforms when they kick off the season. Tampa Bay revealed on social media that they will have a whiteout for the season opener against the Washington Commanders at Raymond James Stadium for a 4:25 game.
Traditionally, the Bucs opt for white jerseys at the start of the season when the temperatures are higher in Tampa. Last season, they wore all white in the home opener against the Bears in Week 2 and emerged victorious with a 27-17 win. This season, they will follow the same theme against Washington, aiming for another successful start.
Some fans have expressed discontent about the frequent use of all-white uniforms compared to the team’s traditional red and pewter colors, which are considered the home colors. The argument is that white is a common color among teams, whereas red and pewter are unique to the Bucs. As the season progresses, the Bucs tend to incorporate more red into their uniforms. For example, they wore red jerseys when they defeated the Eagles 32-9 in the postseason.
Will the Bucs Wear Creamsicle or Pewter Uniforms?
This season, the Bucs have the option to pair white or red jerseys with either white or pewter pants. Additionally, they have pewter pants that can be matched with either jersey.
Furthermore, there are the iconic creamsicle uniforms that returned last season, along with an all-pewter look (pewter jersey and pants) that the Bucs have been showcasing since 2020.
Although there is no official announcement yet regarding when the creamsicle uniforms or the pewter jerseys will make an appearance, players have been seen in creamsicle jerseys during photo shoots, hinting at their return this season.
The throwback uniforms came back last year after a long absence, with the Bucs donning the creamsicles in a game against the Lions, though they suffered a 20-6 loss. Fans embraced the retro look, indicating that the creamsicles are likely here to stay. The team also wore the pewter jerseys last season in a game against the Colts.
It would be intriguing to see the Bucs wear the creamsicles for their home game against the Raiders in Week 13 on December 8. This matchup would add a pirate theme and an old-school vibe, given the Raiders’ long-standing presence in the league. As for the pewter jerseys, they can be worn at any time since there is no specific historical significance associated with them, and the team has worn them both at home and away.
Bucs to Host Salute To Service Game
The team also announced a Salute To Service game, which will take place against the 49ers in Week 10. This game will be the last before the bye week and has historically been challenging for the Bucs against San Francisco under head coach Todd Bowles.
In 2022, the Bucs suffered a 35-7 defeat in San Francisco, where Brock Purdy made his NFL starting debut. Last season, despite a different team and quarterback, they lost 27-14 to the 49ers again. Playing at home this time might bring about a change in fortunes for the Bucs. Games against teams like the 49ers and Lions this season will serve as benchmarks for the Bucs.