Big Ten Network’s president answers fans’ questions
In his latest update, Big Ten Network President Mark Silverman answers several of the burning questions that Big Ten fans seem to be asking.
We’re still waiting for a final list of all the cable companies that will be carrying the network but we imagine that will be an ongoing process throughout the summer. We’re happy to hear that 40 cable companies have signed up already and that most customers in the Big Ten’s eight states reportedly won’t have to pay a premium to get the channel.
1. Will I be able to get the Big Ten Network?
2. Will I have to pay more for it?
3. Will the Big Ten Network be carrying the games I want to see?If you want the short version of the answers, here they are.
1. Yes, you’ll be able to get the network, if your cable or satellite company decides the network is compelling and its customers will want it. You’re a customer – you have a say in the matter. If you are interested in getting the network, you will want to call your provider to find out whether they intend to carry it. We currently have agreements with DirecTV and AT&T, as well as with over 40 cable operators. If they can agree to carry the network, we would expect that others will soon follow.
2. You will not have to pay more for the network if you live in the eight states of the Big Ten because we believe the network should be carried on basic cable. We understand this network is important enough to you that it should be part of any basic package of cable service you receive. And if you already have DirecTV or AT&T, they have agreed to include the network in their basic packages. Outside the eight states, you may need to subscribe to digital cable.
3. Yes, the Big Ten Network absolutely will carry the games you want to see. ABC will still have the national game each week, and we’ll rotate selection of the other games with ESPN and ESPN2. Half the time, the Big Ten Network will get the second or third pick of games. And we’re going to have split feeds, so that if you live in Iowa you’ll see the Iowa game and if you live in Pennsylvania you’ll see Penn State. Even if they’re on at the same time. I can tell you that every home Big Ten game will be broadcast.