Would OU network change your realignment thinking?
Published: 9/23/2011 11:35 AM
Last Modified: 9/23/2011 11:35 AM
Theory: Oklahoma really is just fine with not going to the Pac-12. It's really OK with holding the Big 12 together. Because one day, the Sooners will have their own network, and they see the profit potential in that venture.
You can't reap that windfall in the Pac-12. Larry Scott prefers regional networks to institutional ones out there. It's why Texas didn't join. ESPN Bevo doesn't fly out west, but is expected to thrive in the Big 12.
So far as we know, concessions have been made regarding Tier 1 and 2 TV revenue. That's Big 12 members money from ABC/ESPN and Fox contracts. Nothing specific about Tier 3, the tier having to do with institutional agreements like ESPN Bevo.
That angers OU fans right now. They feel Texas just threw its weight around and crushed its Red River rival in the process.
But what if ESPN Boomer or FoxSports Sooner launches? Would you change your tune about Tier 3 revenue protection? How about the right to show what you want, high school footage and extra Big 12 games included?
Of course, you need a network before forming new conclusions. Here was OU president David Boren Thursday night:
"We are getting a very positive response from potential financial partners to the beginning of our own institutional network. The conference will continue to have a structure that allows institutions to have their own networks. It's very possible we may be the second university to have one up and going. We're making a lot of progress. I know Joe (Castiglione) won't want to get into specifics about possible business partners. He gets to worrying I'll say too much. He's a very good, very quiet bargainer on these things. But we're making great progress on our own institutional network."
And:
"Recall that we are planning our own network. We have an interest in pursuing that. That should be happening here in less than 12 months."
Maybe, within the next year, you'll see the developments of the last 72 hours in a different light.
-- Guerin Emig
Written by
Guerin Emig
Sports Writer
