November 21, 2006
NFL Network Starts Playing Hardball
Thursday night marks the debut of NFL Network coverage of regular season games, and, surpirse of all surprises, a number of cable systems across the country are balking at the price:
Most notable among the cable companies that haven't reached deals with the National Football League are No. 2 operator Time Warner Cable, which is a unit of the media conglomerate Time Warner Inc.; Cablevision Systems Corp., a New York-area provider; and Charter Communications Inc. Time Warner, for its part, says it's highly unlikely a deal will be reached in time for the first game.
Haven't we all read this telegram before?
National cable network carrying a sport that was once only offered over free broadcast television sets price for national cable and satellite carriers -- STOP -- Most cable and satellite companies fall quietly into line -- STOP -- Several large carriers, usually based in the New York Metropolitan area balk at cost -- STOP -- National cable network warns fans/customers will be angered if they can't see the games -- STOP -- Cable companies drag negotiations out till the 11th hour threatening premier telecast -- STOP.
STOP. STOP. STOP!
This isn't a news story, it's a full employment act for flacks and media beat writers. Wake me when it's over.
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11:05 PM