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Big Ten Network Blocked by Cable Dispute

65% of TV's in Big Ten states don't get the games, fans enraged

By Nick McMaster,  Newser Staff

Posted Nov 1, 2007 1:16 PM CDT
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(Newser) – College football fans are angry, ABC News reports. A dispute between the new Big Ten Network -- devoted to the athletic conference -- and cable providers means that 65% of subscribers in the eight states which are home to the Big Ten schools don't get the network, which means missing highly-anticipated games like this weekend's between the Ohio Buckeyes and Wisconsin Badgers.

The stalemate results from the Big Ten's insistence on being included on basic cable tiers in states where college football is tantamount to religion. Many cable carriers want to carry the network as part of a premium expanded sports package, a stance the Big Ten's president says "shows a severe misunderstanding of how important the schools are to these communities."

The logo for the Big Ten Network, which has alienated some of its demographic with its cost and distribution methods.
The logo for the Big Ten Network, which has alienated some of its demographic with its cost and distribution methods.   (Official Logo)
Ohio State coach Jim Tressel leads his team onto the field Sept. 22, 2007, after halftime of a football game against Northwestern in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Amy Sancetta)
Ohio State coach Jim Tressel leads his team onto the field Sept. 22, 2007, after halftime of a football game against Northwestern in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Amy Sancetta)   (Associated Press)
Ohio State head coach Jim Tressel and his players Steve Rehring, left, James Laurinaitis, Malcolm Jenkins, Connor Smith and Alex Boone wait for a college football game against Kent State Saturday, Oct. 13, 2007 in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Kiichiro Sato)
Ohio State head coach Jim Tressel and his players Steve Rehring, left, James Laurinaitis, Malcolm Jenkins, Connor Smith and Alex Boone wait for a college football game against Kent State Saturday, Oct....   (Associated Press)
Wisconsin's Marcus Randle El celebrates on his way off the field after Wisconsin beat Indiana 33-3 in a college football game Saturday, Oct. 27, 2007, in Madison, Wis. (AP Photo/Andy Manis)
Wisconsin's Marcus Randle El celebrates on his way off the field after Wisconsin beat Indiana 33-3 in a college football game Saturday, Oct. 27, 2007, in Madison, Wis. (AP Photo/Andy Manis)   (Associated Press)
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