Pac-12 Network Reaching Deal with DirecTV
By Brian Spaen
Numerous reports have given various results on the situation between the Pac-12 Networks and DirecTV, but the latest one shows that we’ve reached a promising conclusion.
According to Bill Riley from ESPN 700, he’s still sure as of today that the Pac-12 Network will be available for DirecTV subscribers by the time football games make their debut on Thursday night.
Earlier, I’ve been making the guess that at worst, the networks would be available by the time of the Fresno State vs Oregon game in week two. That’s the first matchup dealing with one of the top Pac-12 teams.
Now, discussion begins of how the network(s) are going to be distributed. Will DirecTV add all seven networks? What programming tiers will they be available on? Will the programming be available on different tiers by region?
The Pac-12 will likely want a deal similar to Big Ten Network. Their lone network is available on the basic tier. Without question, having all seven networks on a basic package is impossible.
Chasing a deal close to BTN is likely moving too fast. The Pac-12 doesn’t have the prestige of the conference, and at least for the first year I believe that the main Pac-12 Network should be available on the basic tier for those living in states that have Pac-12 teams. Other states must purchase a sports tier package (similar to The MTN’s distribution).
What about the other regional networks? I don’t believe they will be picked up by the satellite provider at this time.
Those with Dish Network shouldn’t hold their breath. They haven’t been talking with the Pac-12 and it’s likely they will be dropping BTN by the start of the season.
Oregon will have two of their three non-conference games on the network – the aforementioned game against Fresno State and Tennessee Tech, both at home. It’s likely one of their conference games will be on the network too.
Brian Spaen is the lead editor for Autzen Zoo, follow the site on Facebook and Twitter. Read his other work on the Iowa State blog, Clones Confidential, and Lacrosse the Web.