Keith Thibault of Sports Media Journal and I are back with another edition of our podcast.
In our News of the Week segment, Keith and I looked at yet another record rating for the NFL, this time for Divisional Playoff Weekend as the New York Giants-Green Bay Packers viewership helped to pace the numbers.
From there, we looked at the antiquated NFL blackout rules which are being reviewed by the FCC and how both Keith and I hope they will be repealed.
We talk about the unveiling of ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball schedule and how it’s Red Sox and Yankees laden (as always).
Then we exchange our thoughts on the 70th birthday of “The Greatest,” Muhammed Ali and his influence on the sports media in his prime.
Our guest this week is the Chief Operating Officer of the National Hockey League, John Collins. Mr. Collins oversees the NHL’s business and media operations and there’s none better to discuss the league’s television and content strategy.
We began by talking about the NHL Winter Classic and how John felt the event went in the league’s eyes.
Keith and I asked about the league’s new TV contract with NBC Sports and how fans will have access to every game nationally during the NHL Playoffs.
Plus, we asked Mr. Collins about HBO’s involvement with its 24/7 series and what it means to have NHL Original Productions in tow.
And John also looked ahead to the NHL TV rights negotiations in Canada. Overall, a very good podcast. Find it under “Sports Media Journal” on iTunes or go here to listen right away.
