Comcast/Xfinity blackouts could affect Oregon football this weekend and beyond

When the Pac-12 had issues with DirecTV concerning coverage, it lasted for years. Now, Oregon football fans who wish to pay an additional $10 fee for an upgraded sports package may run into tuning into the Big Ten Network on their Comcast or Xfinity service.

Blackout restrictions for the West Coast are currently in place meaning coverage of Oregon, Washington, UCLA, and USC will not be seen in the home markets of those respective teams, unless there is a quick fix. We know by now that with these issues, the fix is rarely ever quick. This does not affect those with other service or streaming providers looking to tune into the game this weekend, just those with Comcast/Xfinity.

John Canzano from the Bald Faced Truth was the first to discuss the issue at length earlier this week. I can only think that old DirecTV/Pac-12 problem rehashing itself, but this time on a larger scale. You have four new teams looking to make an impression and local fans, unless you are inside Autzen Stadium will not be able to see the game on television.

The issue is 'territorial rights' and fees according to Canzano who has spoken to parties on both sides of the issue. One aspect that can change this is fans and having their say. It is what has helped move the needle before. The issue also affected other Big Ten schools in the past including Rutgers and Maryland when they joined the Big Ten.

While the focus right now is on football this weekend vs. Idaho, the blackout will affect all Oregon sports on Comcast/Xfinity until it is resolved. The Friday evening volleyball match with Pitt and Oregon will also be blacked out for homes locally in the Eugene/Springfield area. The best option, find a streaming service to watch the game this weekend and hope there is a quick resolution to the problem.

Oregon and Idaho meet to open the season on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. PT inside Autzen Stadium.