(11-06-2013 04:36 PM)vandiver49 Wrote:  Viewed from a network perspective, I think both FOX/ESPN have as winnable hands as one could get with events that are within their control. Neither can influence the economy nor can either do anything about dwindling attendance. But I think both have maximized viewership as best as the can within the CFB sphere. FOX has the PAC and the B1G and B12 partially while ESPN has the ACC, SEC and the other half of the B12. Each has a rabid fan base (SEC, B1G) along with major population centers(ACC, PAC).

JR, I know you mentioned in another thread that while the ACC geographically has the largest population base that hasn't been monetized, but ESPN doesn't need fans at games to get paid. They just need to be able to justify the WWL stations on basic cable packages. You don't need rabid fans to make that happen, just enough who give a damn to threaten to cancel their cable if it's picked up. Its the same strategy FOX will use on the West Coast with the PAC and their various RSN's.

FOX doesn't have the Big Ten. They are partners in the Big Ten Network but ESPN, once again, has first choice of all Big Ten matchups.

Just because The Big Ten doesn't fully sell out to ESPN doesn't mean they don't have a strong relationship.