Why can’t the NFL broadcast it’s games online separately from cable and satellite much like HBO and SHOWTIME did?
It probably can… assuming their deals with the networks and cable/satellite TV companies do not prohibit them from doing so. However, the question is not whether they can, which they can surely figure out or negotiate the ability to, it is if it is actually in the NFL's best financial interest …
The Short Answer
It probably can… assuming their deals with the networks and cable/satellite TV companies do not prohibit them from doing so. However, the question is not whether they can, which they can surely figure out or negotiate the ability to, it is if it is actually in the NFL's best financial interest to do so. They sell the rights to broadcast their games to the networks, who pay massive sums of money to the NFL for this. If the NFL allowed direct to consumer access, bypassing the networks and pay-tv companies, they would not be able to charge anywhere near as much for selling their game rights. So if they think they can make more going direct to consumers than they lose in the deals with the networks its a good option. As of now, the networks pay such ridiculously high fees for carrying NFL games, its unlikely a direct to consumer method is more profitable.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Networks, direct, deals
This explanation focuses on networks, direct, deals and spans 156 words across 7 sentences. At 129% above the average Space & Astronomy explanation (68 words), this is one of the more thorough answers in this category, reflecting the complexity of the underlying question.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “It probably can…” It then elaborates by presenting a contrasting perspective, ultimately building toward a complete picture across 7 connected points.
How This Compares in Space & Astronomy
Ranked #24 of 500 Space & Astronomy questions by answer depth (top 6%). This places it in the comprehensive tier — the top quarter of most thoroughly answered questions. Questions at this depth typically involve multi-faceted topics requiring nuanced explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why the nfl broadcast it's games online separately from cable and satellite much like hbo and showtime did?
It probably can… assuming their deals with the networks and cable/satellite TV companies do not prohibit them from doing so. However, the question is not whether they can, which they can surely figure out or negotiate the ability to, it is if it…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Space & Astronomy questions?
This is one of the most thorough answer at 156 words, ranked #24 of 500 Space & Astronomy questions by depth. The key concepts covered are networks, direct, deals.
What approach does this answer take to explain the nfl broadcast it's games online separately from cable an?
The explanation uses contrasting perspectives across 156 words. It is categorized under Space & Astronomy and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.