Longhorn Network

ESPN can help sell TLN to cable operators because it's ESPN. And the $300 million ESPN is paying UT? Remember, ESPN gets $400 million PER MONTH from cable operators who carry TWWL. So I don't think that ESPN or Texas is that worried about a turning much of a profit.

 

I wonder how many other schools could pull off something similar.

Maybe 5-7 schools?

 

I'd be surprised if it's that many. Texas really is in a unique situation with such a large (and growing population) state and they are so far and away the top draw in that state. There are probably 10 schools or so that can match the tradition and prestige, but I'd bet there's only a couple where something like this would fly economically.

 

Notre Dame
Alabama
Georgia
Oklahoma
Maybe a couple other SEC schools if they have a good season (i.e., in the hunt for a national championship)
Michigan, Ohio State, USC if it weren't for those issues with the NCAA

And the one area of Texas I just can't see offering this: Bryan-College Station

 

The SEC made a big mistake in not starting a network. ACC as well.

 

Lubbock too, but Bryan-College Station for sure.

 

+1

 

Oklahoma fans will turn their TV sets upside down before they watch anything on that network.

 

In Dallas, they'll only show half the screen during State Fair Weekend.

 

From UT's standpoint that doesn't matter. They would get the cable & satellite subscriber fees whether the subscribers watch or not.

 

They'll carry it. I don't know what the UT equivalent of subway alumni are but Longhorn fans are everywhere down here. They're like cockroaches.

 

Someone beat me to it.

They're starting a network to follow mediocre athletic competitions?

Football team didn't go to a bowl, and would love for Mack Brown to go quietly into the sunset.
Basketball team features one of the most overrated coaches this decade.
Baseball team goes to the World Series for the 34th year; 2 and q.

Yeah. Some advertisers that bleed burnt orange will eat this up. Some viewers will as well.