Pac-12 and CBS Reach Broadcast Agreement
Introduction to the Deal
The Pac-12 struck a media-rights deal with CBS on Monday that sets up the network to broadcast a minimum of four football and men’s basketball games per season on its main network and provide a cable and streaming presence for the reconfigured league from 2026-31. Financial details of the new deal were not disclosed. Conference Commissioner Teresa Gould called it a “transformational partnership” that allows the Pac-12 to grow when it starts as a remodeled league in 2026-27.
Background of the Agreement
An inability to secure a media deal is what nearly cratered the league in 2023, with all but Oregon State and Washington State departing for the Big 12, Atlantic Coast and Big Ten Conferences. The Pac-12 already had deals in place to put all of the two remaining teams’ football games on the CW, ESPN and CBS for the upcoming season.
Details of the New Deal
The new deal with what the league calls its “primary long-term media partner” kicks in the next season, when Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, Utah State and San Diego State will join the Pac-12 in all sports, with Gonzaga joining in everything but football. The Pac-12 needs to add another football program to reach the minimum eight teams necessary to be in the Football Bowl Subdivision and, thus, the College Football Playoff. Multiple reports say Texas State has emerged as the top candidate.
Broadcast Schedule
Under the new deal, CBS will broadcast at least three regular-season football and men’s basketball games per season, along with the championship games for both sports. The league also will have what it called a “consistent regular-season presence” on the cable CBS Sports Network.
Additional Media Partners
Details are still being finalized as Pac-12 media negotiator, Octagon, works on finding additional media partners for the league.
Conclusion
The Pac-12 and CBS broadcast agreement marks a significant step forward for the league, providing a stable media presence for its member schools. With the addition of new teams and a strong media partner, the Pac-12 is poised for growth and success in the coming years.
FAQs
Q: What is the duration of the Pac-12 and CBS broadcast agreement?
A: The agreement is in place from 2026-31.
Q: How many football and men’s basketball games will CBS broadcast per season?
A: CBS will broadcast at least four football and men’s basketball games per season.
Q: Which teams will join the Pac-12 in the next season?
A: Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, Utah State, and San Diego State will join the Pac-12 in all sports, with Gonzaga joining in everything but football.
Q: Why does the Pac-12 need to add another football program?
A: The Pac-12 needs to add another football program to reach the minimum eight teams necessary to be in the Football Bowl Subdivision and, thus, the College Football Playoff.
