Big 12 emerges as 'strong option' for NBC as new broadcast partner alongside Notre Dame
Big 12 fans could soon see conference sporting events broadcast on NBC. According to a report from CBS Sports’ Dennis Dodd, the league has emerged as a “strong option” for the network as it seeks additional programming alongside its deal with Notre Dame.
The news comes after the Fighting Irish announced they will remain independent if they can earn at least $75 million annually from their deal with NBC. Notre Dame’s current deal is set to expire in 2025. The network feels that in order for that to be possible, it needs “shoulder programming” from a Power 5 conference to bring in more revenue. Many believe the Big 12 could fit exactly what it’s looking for.
Outgoing Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby had not heard anything specific on NBC targeting the Big 12 for additional programming but told CBS that such a move “makes sense.” The Big 12 may be one of the few leagues with inventory available as its media rights deal also expires in 2025.
Brett Yormark replaces Bowlsby as Big 12 commissioner on Aug. 1. In a press conference at Big 12 Media Days last week, Yormark said the conference is “open for business.”
CLICK HERE to subscribe to the On3 YouTube channel
The Big 12 currently has its games broadcast on both FOX and ESPN, but is due for a big change in the next couple of years. Not only will the conference add four teams by next year, but it will also lose Oklahoma and Texas by 2025. There have even been rumors that the Big 12 could look to add more teams from the Pac-12. That gives Yormark plenty to consider as he negotiates a new media rights deal for the conference going forward.
The Big Ten was also previously mentioned as a candidate for partnership with NBC, and is expected to announced a $1 billion deal with FOX as soon as next month. It is still believed to be seeking 2-3 other partners to air its programming with NBC reportedly among the bidders.
NBC’s negotiations are expected to extend across the next 2-3 weeks.