ACC, PAC-12, and BIG alliance / conference realignment | Page 342 | Syracusefan.com

ACC, PAC-12, and BIG alliance / conference realignment

Does anyone have the current ACC-ESPN contract on to? Links? To be sure, I prefer an unredacted contract as a redacted contract does not disclose everything.

If I recall, the 2013 contract ran through 2026. The new co tract extended the deal through 2036. I don't recall any escape clause.

Since most of the nonsense has been started by FSU mouths, I am reluctant to believe the rumors until I see it writing. Yes, I remain skeptic that the universities would vote for a one-sided opt out clause not in their favor.
Here is a link to the redacted documents you asked for.

It is as it was reported.

Enjoy.

 
Here is a link to the redacted documents you asked for.

It is as it was reported.

Enjoy.

They only thing not blacked out:

John Wildhack
Executive Vice President, Programming
ESPN, Inc.
ESPN Plaza
Bristol, CT 06010

John Swofford
Commissioner
Atlantic Coast Conference
4512 Weybridge Lane
Greensboro, NC 27407

:);)
 
Here is a link to the redacted documents you asked for.

It is as it was reported.

Enjoy.

Thanks, again, Tom.

From the link to download, go to Page 164 on your PDF counter, Section 14 of the Amended and Restated Multi-Media Agreement:

14. Extension Option: [redacted]
14.1 Extension Option. ESPN has the exclusive, revocable option (the "Extension Option"), but not the obligation, to extend the Agreement until [redacted] subject to the remainder of this paragraph (such extended term of July 1, 2027 to [redacted] the "Extension Term") by providing written notice to the Conference no later that two (2) years after the launch date of the ACC-ESPN Network. {redacted]
14.2 [redacted]
14.3 [redacted]
14.4. [redacted]
14.5 [redacted]
(a) [redacted]
(b) [redacted]



To analyze this paragraph correctly, one must know the redacted information. As the entire section is roughly two pages and we have only a few lines, the bulk of any analysis is in truth mere speculation.

What we can readily discern is that ESPN had an "exclusive, revocable option";* this means that ESPN owned the option and it is revocable. While the option is revocable, the revocation conditions are not disclosed. As FSU mouthpieces and internet blowhards are the source of most claims pertaining to the Option, we can logically discount the credibility and accuracy of their claims. What is clear is that the redacted portions of Section 14 are highly important in explaining ESPN's revocable option.

Next we see ESPN had no obligation to extend the agreement to a specified but redacted time, presumable 2036 as that is the internet rumor and if I recall, has been disclosed by some officials (speculation on my part as I lack evidence to support the claim, others are welcome to prove/discredit and I will defer).

Then we see that all of the above is "subject to the remainder of the paragraph (such extended term of 1 July, 2027 to [redacted] the "Extension Term")..." Thus, my position that the remaining redacted subparagraphs are highly important to the proper understanding of the entire section, the visible language plainly states that the option and everything associated with it are conditioned by the redacted portions.

Finally, we see how and when the extension must occur: "by providing written notice to the Conference no later that two (2) years after the launch date of the ACC-ESPN Network. {redacted]" As the ACCN has been on the air several years, well beyond the two years, in which ESPN had to exercise their option, and considering the fact that ACC Commissioner Phillips has expressed the agreement will continue, we can reasonably conclude that ESPN exercised their option within the stated two-year period. Had ESPN not exercised their option, there would be no basis for FSU, and Clemson's, lawsuits. FSU and Clemson merely would need to wait a couple years and complete the agreement in 2027 and based on UCLA, USC, UT, OU, SU, and PITT's prior handling of the matter and act accordingly, a much less costly and surefire method of exiting the ACC. Further, both lawsuits readily recognize that the agreement was extended beyond 2027 claiming the longer date as a part of the damages.

To clarify, this is a revocable option on ESPN's part, but no internet blowhard knows the the conditions on which ESPN may revoke their intent to continue the agreement after 2027 as previously noticed to the ACC. That said, all indications are that ESPN plans to continue the agreement. The look-in will occur, and if I recall, there will be a third look-in around 2030 (this is from memory, I will defer to any substantive proof - No, Locked On Big 12 does NOT constitute proof of most anything!)

With the completely redacted subparagraphs which contain the conditions under which ESPN may revoke the agreement, there is only speculation as to how ESPN may revoke. Without a methodology of how ESPN may revoke, you must apply logic to any claim (until some time when the agreement is fully disclosed) that the speculating party may have a bias. As the speculation is essentially starting with FSU fans, you should seek documented proof before believing anything they report. Equally, if other ACC school fans present speculation you should also seek documented proof. There is nothing wrong with speculation in and of itself, however, if you are to give it credence, you should have supporting evidence.

Further, the language proves FSU and Clemson would need to sue ESPN to get out of the ACC, with one exception. If FSU and/or Clemson could cause enough disruption to destroy/damage the ACC enough to the point that ESPN would no longer wish to continue the agreement and revoke their option. This tactic has failed miserably. Thus, the suits are likely frivolous. Ironically, their actions serve as proof that ESPN was not the impetus of moving more valuable properties to the SEC to make more money and dump the ACC deadweight; a fact that discounts the very basis that they "need" to change conferences, as perpetuated by many FSU mouthpieces.** And without ESPN being the impetus for FSU and Clemson changing conferences and ESPN's notice that they would extend the agreement, we can justifiably question why ESPN would destroy the ACC, especially when the ACCN has proved to be a profitable entity, making an action in which ESPN destroys the ACC and ACCN a very bad business decision.

We can reasonably conclude that most of the "information" coming from FSU and FSU related sources should be viewed through a skeptic lens. Further, when the "information" contradicts known facts, this "information" is false.

We know that that the majority of the Power 4/5 schools and likely many of the G5 schools have had their legal departments and contracted law firms search for means of breaking the agreements and GORs. All have concluded the same thing, as have independent firms looking for ways to generate new revenue. No one figured a means of defeating statutory and case law in well-resolved areas of law, namely IP, contract, and entertainment.

For another perspective on the FSU lawsuit against the ACC, see the following link and the internal links to our new ACC Member Cal:


For any deeper analysis on ESPN's Option, we would need to know the actual language of the redacted portions.


*On the existence of the Option, I stand corrected. However, the major point stands that the Option is highly controlled and is not merely a whimsical decision as portrayed by FSU.
**FSU and Clemson's desire for more money remains valid, as every school wants more money; however, the claim of the "need" and ESPN as the impetus for conference change have been destroyed.
 
Thanks, again, Tom.

From the link to download, go to Page 164 on your PDF counter, Section 14 of the Amended and Restated Multi-Media Agreement:

14. Extension Option: [redacted]
14.1 Extension Option. ESPN has the exclusive, revocable option (the "Extension Option"), but not the obligation, to extend the Agreement until [redacted] subject to the remainder of this paragraph (such extended term of July 1, 2027 to [redacted] the "Extension Term") by providing written notice to the Conference no later that two (2) years after the launch date of the ACC-ESPN Network. {redacted]
14.2 [redacted]
14.3 [redacted]
14.4. [redacted]
14.5 [redacted]
(a) [redacted]
(b) [redacted]



To analyze this paragraph correctly, one must know the redacted information. As the entire section is roughly two pages and we have only a few lines, the bulk of any analysis is in truth mere speculation.

What we can readily discern is that ESPN had an "exclusive, revocable option";* this means that ESPN owned the option and it is revocable. While the option is revocable, the revocation conditions are not disclosed. As FSU mouthpieces and internet blowhards are the source of most claims pertaining to the Option, we can logically discount the credibility and accuracy of their claims. What is clear is that the redacted portions of Section 14 are highly important in explaining ESPN's revocable option.

Next we see ESPN had no obligation to extend the agreement to a specified but redacted time, presumable 2036 as that is the internet rumor and if I recall, has been disclosed by some officials (speculation on my part as I lack evidence to support the claim, others are welcome to prove/discredit and I will defer).

Then we see that all of the above is "subject to the remainder of the paragraph (such extended term of 1 July, 2027 to [redacted] the "Extension Term")..." Thus, my position that the remaining redacted subparagraphs are highly important to the proper understanding of the entire section, the visible language plainly states that the option and everything associated with it are conditioned by the redacted portions.

Finally, we see how and when the extension must occur: "by providing written notice to the Conference no later that two (2) years after the launch date of the ACC-ESPN Network. {redacted]" As the ACCN has been on the air several years, well beyond the two years, in which ESPN had to exercise their option, and considering the fact that ACC Commissioner Phillips has expressed the agreement will continue, we can reasonably conclude that ESPN exercised their option within the stated two-year period. Had ESPN not exercised their option, there would be no basis for FSU, and Clemson's, lawsuits. FSU and Clemson merely would need to wait a couple years and complete the agreement in 2027 and based on UCLA, USC, UT, OU, SU, and PITT's prior handling of the matter and act accordingly, a much less costly and surefire method of exiting the ACC. Further, both lawsuits readily recognize that the agreement was extended beyond 2027 claiming the longer date as a part of the damages.

To clarify, this is a revocable option on ESPN's part, but no internet blowhard knows the the conditions on which ESPN may revoke their intent to continue the agreement after 2027 as previously noticed to the ACC. That said, all indications are that ESPN plans to continue the agreement. The look-in will occur, and if I recall, there will be a third look-in around 2030 (this is from memory, I will defer to any substantive proof - No, Locked On Big 12 does NOT constitute proof of most anything!)

With the completely redacted subparagraphs which contain the conditions under which ESPN may revoke the agreement, there is only speculation as to how ESPN may revoke. Without a methodology of how ESPN may revoke, you must apply logic to any claim (until some time when the agreement is fully disclosed) that the speculating party may have a bias. As the speculation is essentially starting with FSU fans, you should seek documented proof before believing anything they report. Equally, if other ACC school fans present speculation you should also seek documented proof. There is nothing wrong with speculation in and of itself, however, if you are to give it credence, you should have supporting evidence.

Further, the language proves FSU and Clemson would need to sue ESPN to get out of the ACC, with one exception. If FSU and/or Clemson could cause enough disruption to destroy/damage the ACC enough to the point that ESPN would no longer wish to continue the agreement and revoke their option. This tactic has failed miserably. Thus, the suits are likely frivolous. Ironically, their actions serve as proof that ESPN was not the impetus of moving more valuable properties to the SEC to make more money and dump the ACC deadweight; a fact that discounts the very basis that they "need" to change conferences, as perpetuated by many FSU mouthpieces.** And without ESPN being the impetus for FSU and Clemson changing conferences and ESPN's notice that they would extend the agreement, we can justifiably question why ESPN would destroy the ACC, especially when the ACCN has proved to be a profitable entity, making an action in which ESPN destroys the ACC and ACCN a very bad business decision.

We can reasonably conclude that most of the "information" coming from FSU and FSU related sources should be viewed through a skeptic lens. Further, when the "information" contradicts known facts, this "information" is false.

We know that that the majority of the Power 4/5 schools and likely many of the G5 schools have had their legal departments and contracted law firms search for means of breaking the agreements and GORs. All have concluded the same thing, as have independent firms looking for ways to generate new revenue. No one figured a means of defeating statutory and case law in well-resolved areas of law, namely IP, contract, and entertainment.

For another perspective on the FSU lawsuit against the ACC, see the following link and the internal links to our new ACC Member Cal:


For any deeper analysis on ESPN's Option, we would need to know the actual language of the redacted portions.


*On the existence of the Option, I stand corrected. However, the major point stands that the Option is highly controlled and is not merely a whimsical decision as portrayed by FSU.
**FSU and Clemson's desire for more money remains valid, as every school wants more money; however, the claim of the "need" and ESPN as the impetus for conference change have been destroyed.
Thank you. This is excellent and i truly appreciate all the time and effort.
 
Thanks, again, Tom.

From the link to download, go to Page 164 on your PDF counter, Section 14 of the Amended and Restated Multi-Media Agreement:

14. Extension Option: [redacted]
14.1 Extension Option. ESPN has the exclusive, revocable option (the "Extension Option"), but not the obligation, to extend the Agreement until [redacted] subject to the remainder of this paragraph (such extended term of July 1, 2027 to [redacted] the "Extension Term") by providing written notice to the Conference no later that two (2) years after the launch date of the ACC-ESPN Network. {redacted]
14.2 [redacted]
14.3 [redacted]
14.4. [redacted]
14.5 [redacted]
(a) [redacted]
(b) [redacted]



To analyze this paragraph correctly, one must know the redacted information. As the entire section is roughly two pages and we have only a few lines, the bulk of any analysis is in truth mere speculation.

What we can readily discern is that ESPN had an "exclusive, revocable option";* this means that ESPN owned the option and it is revocable. While the option is revocable, the revocation conditions are not disclosed. As FSU mouthpieces and internet blowhards are the source of most claims pertaining to the Option, we can logically discount the credibility and accuracy of their claims. What is clear is that the redacted portions of Section 14 are highly important in explaining ESPN's revocable option.

Next we see ESPN had no obligation to extend the agreement to a specified but redacted time, presumable 2036 as that is the internet rumor and if I recall, has been disclosed by some officials (speculation on my part as I lack evidence to support the claim, others are welcome to prove/discredit and I will defer).

Then we see that all of the above is "subject to the remainder of the paragraph (such extended term of 1 July, 2027 to [redacted] the "Extension Term")..." Thus, my position that the remaining redacted subparagraphs are highly important to the proper understanding of the entire section, the visible language plainly states that the option and everything associated with it are conditioned by the redacted portions.

Finally, we see how and when the extension must occur: "by providing written notice to the Conference no later that two (2) years after the launch date of the ACC-ESPN Network. {redacted]" As the ACCN has been on the air several years, well beyond the two years, in which ESPN had to exercise their option, and considering the fact that ACC Commissioner Phillips has expressed the agreement will continue, we can reasonably conclude that ESPN exercised their option within the stated two-year period. Had ESPN not exercised their option, there would be no basis for FSU, and Clemson's, lawsuits. FSU and Clemson merely would need to wait a couple years and complete the agreement in 2027 and based on UCLA, USC, UT, OU, SU, and PITT's prior handling of the matter and act accordingly, a much less costly and surefire method of exiting the ACC. Further, both lawsuits readily recognize that the agreement was extended beyond 2027 claiming the longer date as a part of the damages.

To clarify, this is a revocable option on ESPN's part, but no internet blowhard knows the the conditions on which ESPN may revoke their intent to continue the agreement after 2027 as previously noticed to the ACC. That said, all indications are that ESPN plans to continue the agreement. The look-in will occur, and if I recall, there will be a third look-in around 2030 (this is from memory, I will defer to any substantive proof - No, Locked On Big 12 does NOT constitute proof of most anything!)

With the completely redacted subparagraphs which contain the conditions under which ESPN may revoke the agreement, there is only speculation as to how ESPN may revoke. Without a methodology of how ESPN may revoke, you must apply logic to any claim (until some time when the agreement is fully disclosed) that the speculating party may have a bias. As the speculation is essentially starting with FSU fans, you should seek documented proof before believing anything they report. Equally, if other ACC school fans present speculation you should also seek documented proof. There is nothing wrong with speculation in and of itself, however, if you are to give it credence, you should have supporting evidence.

Further, the language proves FSU and Clemson would need to sue ESPN to get out of the ACC, with one exception. If FSU and/or Clemson could cause enough disruption to destroy/damage the ACC enough to the point that ESPN would no longer wish to continue the agreement and revoke their option. This tactic has failed miserably. Thus, the suits are likely frivolous. Ironically, their actions serve as proof that ESPN was not the impetus of moving more valuable properties to the SEC to make more money and dump the ACC deadweight; a fact that discounts the very basis that they "need" to change conferences, as perpetuated by many FSU mouthpieces.** And without ESPN being the impetus for FSU and Clemson changing conferences and ESPN's notice that they would extend the agreement, we can justifiably question why ESPN would destroy the ACC, especially when the ACCN has proved to be a profitable entity, making an action in which ESPN destroys the ACC and ACCN a very bad business decision.

We can reasonably conclude that most of the "information" coming from FSU and FSU related sources should be viewed through a skeptic lens. Further, when the "information" contradicts known facts, this "information" is false.

We know that that the majority of the Power 4/5 schools and likely many of the G5 schools have had their legal departments and contracted law firms search for means of breaking the agreements and GORs. All have concluded the same thing, as have independent firms looking for ways to generate new revenue. No one figured a means of defeating statutory and case law in well-resolved areas of law, namely IP, contract, and entertainment.

For another perspective on the FSU lawsuit against the ACC, see the following link and the internal links to our new ACC Member Cal:


For any deeper analysis on ESPN's Option, we would need to know the actual language of the redacted portions.


*On the existence of the Option, I stand corrected. However, the major point stands that the Option is highly controlled and is not merely a whimsical decision as portrayed by FSU.
**FSU and Clemson's desire for more money remains valid, as every school wants more money; however, the claim of the "need" and ESPN as the impetus for conference change have been destroyed.
FSU is saying that the original deadline for review/renewal 2 years after the start of the ACCN was moved to February of 2025 with an addition to the contract. One of the things they are upset about is that the change to the contract was alledgely made without a vote of the conference members, only by the commissioner. And that the ACC got nothing for that concession.

Which I think is correct.

I have seen the February 2025 deadline for ESPN to renew the contract to 2036 from many sources. Including some ESPN articles. I am pretty sure it is legit.

Everytime I see it, including in ESPN articles, the article says it is widely believed ESPN is going to renew the contract. But they haven’t done so yet. I assume this is because they want to see what the ACC looks like by that point. If it still includes FSU and Clemson, I assume it will be renewed. If those schools somehow leave, maybe they don’t renew. Or more lilkely, they renew and give the remaining ACC member a nice haircut.

It will be interesting to see what ESPN does if the lawsuits are still going on in February of 2025. I am not sure when all the lawsuits will be resolved but have heard many people say it is likely going to take a long time.

Hopefully this mess is over before Christmas.
 
FSU is saying that the original deadline for review/renewal 2 years after the start of the ACCN was moved to February of 2025 with an addition to the contract. One of the things they are upset about is that the change to the contract was alledgely made without a vote of the conference members, only by the commissioner. And that the ACC got nothing for that concession.

Which I think is correct.

I have seen the February 2025 deadline for ESPN to renew the contract to 2036 from many sources. Including some ESPN articles. I am pretty sure it is legit.

Everytime I see it, including in ESPN articles, the article says it is widely believed ESPN is going to renew the contract. But they haven’t done so yet. I assume this is because they want to see what the ACC looks like by that point. If it still includes FSU and Clemson, I assume it will be renewed. If those schools somehow leave, maybe they don’t renew. Or more lilkely, they renew and give the remaining ACC member a nice haircut.

It will be interesting to see what ESPN does if the lawsuits are still going on in February of 2025. I am not sure when all the lawsuits will be resolved but have heard many people say it is likely going to take a long time.

Hopefully this mess is over before Christmas.
I have not seen anything substantive to support the claim of a change in the date. I would wonder why no other school has raised the matter. Further, even if Swofford had revised the date, there would have to be new consideration to enforce the revised agreement, otherwise it would not likely withstand a challenge. ESPN is not likely to play a game without at least some new consideration to protect themselves from a lawsuit, which would necessarily involve ESPN as a party. Thus, FSU's action and active avoidance of involving ESPN would indicate that the claim is less accurate than presented.

It may be that the article writers are misunderstanding the right to revoke as ESPN's renewal date of 2025, which would fit within the agreement you linked. Though, this limits ESPN's ability to revoke as Section 14 lays out in the redacted portions.

I am also reluctant to believe FSU claims because some of their claims are often facts taken out of context while others are not based in fact.

I agree, it would be nice to have this settled before Christmas, but Alford has to save face. I am not sure anyone in the ACC wants to give Alford a token, especially if they believe FSU is gone is 2036.
 


As always with realignment, there’s a fear of inaction. Schools worry about being left behind when others jump. But my sense from sources is that the AAC schools are being patient and deliberate — and talking to each other. They’re weighing the risks.

There’s a great deal of skepticism within the industry about the Pac-12/its consultant projecting $10-15M per school in a media rights deal that doesn’t exist yet. And the AAC exit fees would be significant — who pays them? So, we’ll see.
 
Looks like there is a tug of war between the PAC and the AAC over Memphis, Tulane, and USF. I would prefer that those three end up in the PAC. USF and Tulane IMO would grow more in the PAC, should the ACC need those two as fillers in the future.

Also looks like the MWC is offering more money to UNLV (PAC) and Air Force (AAC) to entice them to stay.

It will be interesting to see who wins these battles. We really haven't seen these in prior expansions.
 
Supposedly Gonzaga is going to the PAC. They still need 2 more for FB. Maybe they go for a Texas school? UNLV?
 
I have not seen anything substantive to support the claim of a change in the date. I would wonder why no other school has raised the matter. Further, even if Swofford had revised the date, there would have to be new consideration to enforce the revised agreement, otherwise it would not likely withstand a challenge. ESPN is not likely to play a game without at least some new consideration to protect themselves from a lawsuit, which would necessarily involve ESPN as a party. Thus, FSU's action and active avoidance of involving ESPN would indicate that the claim is less accurate than presented.

It may be that the article writers are misunderstanding the right to revoke as ESPN's renewal date of 2025, which would fit within the agreement you linked. Though, this limits ESPN's ability to revoke as Section 14 lays out in the redacted portions.

I am also reluctant to believe FSU claims because some of their claims are often facts taken out of context while others are not based in fact.

I agree, it would be nice to have this settled before Christmas, but Alford has to save face. I am not sure anyone in the ACC wants to give Alford a token, especially if they believe FSU is gone is 2036.
Here is an excerpt from one of a series of tweets David Hale of ESPN posted last week. I have included a direct link to the tweet as well.

It acknowledges the ESPN option to extend the ACC contract to 2036 must be exercised by February of 2025.

The February 2025 deadline has also been published by many other reputable sources. This is not a pie in the sky thing by the FSU crazy people

ESPN writers are not going to post references to the ESPN contract unless they know what they are writing is accurate.

This is a fact.

What's ESPN's perspective on all this?(Preface: This is based on reporting, not on any inside knowledge from ESPN.) The elephant in the room is ESPN's option which must be exercised by February if the TV agreement with the ACC is to continue through 2036. I'm not sure what incentive ESPN would have to want to see the GoR reduced but it certainly makes sense for ESPN to want an amicable solution to the ongoing legal battles with FSU/Clemson. The bigger question is whether ESPN sees a financial value in adding a bit more to the overall pot to make this happen. I've heard nothing to suggest that is imminent. I also continue to hear there's no reason to expect the option won't be picked up, but the sticking points remain safeguards on future expansion and guarantees on TV time slots and network preferences.


9:39 AM · Sep 18, 2024
·
10.8K
Views

 
This is back and forth. Looks like UNLV is still open to the PAC. Which means Air Force might be open to the AAC. MWC might have to go after FCS schools.
 
This is what 2026-27 looks like today:

ACCSECBig 12Big 10Pac 12AACMWCCUSAMACSun BeltIndependent
Boston CollegeAlabamaArizonaIllinoisOregon StateArmyAir ForceDelawareAkronAppalachian StateNotre Dame
CaliforniaArkansasArizona StateIndianaWashington StateCharlotteHawaiiFIUBall StateArkansas StateUConn
ClemsonAuburnBaylorIowaBoise StateEast CarolinaNevadaJacksonville StateBowling GreenCoastal Carolina
DukeFloridaBYUMarylandColorado StateFlorida AtlanticNew MexicoKennesaw StateBuffaloGeorgia Southern
Florida StateGeorgiaCincinnatiMichiganFresno StateMemphisSan Jose StateLibertyCentral MichiganGeorgia State
Georgia TechKentuckyColoradoMichigan StateSan Diego StateNavyUNLVLouisiana TechEastern MichiganJames Madison
LouisvilleLSUHoustonMinnesotaUtah StateNorth TexasWyomingMiddle TennesseeKent StateLouisiana
Miami (FL)Mississippi StateIowa StateNebraskaRiceMissouri StMiami (OH)Louisiana–Monroe
NC StateMissouriKansasNorthwesternSouth FloridaNew Mexico StateNorthern IllinoisMarshall
North CarolinaOklahomaKansas StateOhio StateTempleSan Houston StateOhioOld Dominion
PittsburghOle MissOklahoma StateOregonTulaneUTEPToledoSouth Alabama
SMUSouth CarolinaTCUPenn StateTulsaWestern KentuckyWestern MichiganSouthern Miss
StanfordTennesseeTexas TechPurdueUABUMassTexas State
SyracuseTexasUCFRutgersUTSATroy
VirginiaTexas A&MUtahUCLA
Virginia TechVanderbiltWest VirginiaUSC
Wake ForestWashington
Wisconsin
 

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