Media Mailbag: Insights on Sports Media and Ratings Trends
Welcome to the 38th edition of The Athletic’s Media Mailbag. Readers submitted over 170 questions, and this is Part 2 of our exploration. With issues ranging from college football ratings to the impact of the UFC’s next media rights deal, sports media sparks significant curiosity.
The upcoming college football postseason games on TNT face stiff competition, particularly from NFL games featuring the Kansas City Chiefs, potentially influenced by the “Taylor Swift effect.” Viewership hinges on matchups; while powerhouse teams like Alabama or Ohio State can pull substantial numbers, lower-profile teams might struggle amidst high-profile NFL contests.
Disney aims to retain UFC media rights, a strategic asset in their content portfolio. ESPN President Burke Magnus emphasized UFC’s importance in their direct-to-consumer approach, blending pay-per-view and linear broadcasts. The evolving media landscape suggests that UFC’s pricing could soar, especially if tech giants like Netflix or Apple enter the bidding fray.
Interest in sports media and ratings persists due to their integral role in how fans consume sports. Known commentators like Al Michaels often overshadow athletes, illustrating media’s influence. Ratings remain a key metric for gauging a sport’s popularity, drawing a niche yet dedicated group of viewers eager to see the numbers.
