Different time, though. Back then it was three networks and only the playoffs aired nationwide.MGB01 wrote: ↑Tue Dec 12, 2023 9:08 pmIf the leagues were continuing separately, yeah (which would be the USFL's concern, not the XFL's). Unless ESPN/ABC is out, which hasn't been reported anywhere, one is replacing the other.laxtreme56 wrote: ↑Tue Dec 12, 2023 9:01 pmNBC was paying a rights fee in the low 8 figures plus covering production costs. That’s $12-15 million less in revenue now. I’d be a bit concerned.MGB01 wrote: ↑Tue Dec 12, 2023 7:21 pm Not sure we're supposed to be mourning this--if NBC was a significant benefactor, different story, but not here. And no need for a third partner unless it's going to be more than 12 teams, which is unlikely. Plus between their meh USFL coverage and today's final Curt Gowdying of Al Michaels, among many other things to be sure, it looks they're hellbent on marking the 20th anniversary of being on the bottom (post-Friends and the debut of something called The Apprentice) by rushing back. Granted with SNF it won't happen but damned if they aren't giving it an honest effort.
Some real concerns out there, this ain't one.
Does anybody really think that even a 12-team league would have three broadcast network partners? Hell the NFL didn't even have two when they were a 16-team league leading up to the merger.
One of the XFL selling points is that every game is available everywhere. With Fox loaded up in summer and ESPN in early spring, it'd be tough to pull that off now.
