I don't think it's an insurmountable challenge. It seems like over the past decade, a number of cable channels have started producing more HBO-like content with

I don't think it's an insurmountable challenge. It seems like over the past decade, a number of cable channels have started producing more HBO-like content with decent success. FX with Nip/Tuck, Justified, etc., AMC with Mad Men, Breaking Bad and The Walking Dead, and even Starz with Boss.