Report: ESPN Won't Decline Option To Extend ACC TV Deal | What Does It Mean For Florida State?

ESPN college football reporter David Hale says he has been consistently told by administrators and sources that ESPN will absolutely not decline their option to extend the television partnership with the ACC beyond 2027. If ESPN opts in, does this make it increasingly difficult for Florida State and Clemson to exit the conference? Recent interpretations of the TV agreement have had people assuming that ESPN would likely opt out of the deal, create the need for a new ACC Grant of Rights, and give the opportunity for the Seminoles and Tigers to waltz out the door without an exit fee. Hale and attorney David McKenzie don’t expect it to be that easy. ESPN opting in does not necessarily mean FSU and Clemson would be stuck, however. There are other angles that they could possibly win in court that could lead to an exit.
Hosts Alex Donno and Kenton Gibbs break down these updates and the long term impact they will have on the conference. The guys make their predictions for who will win ACC Coach of the Year in 2024. Gibbs makes a case for either Georgia Tech head coach Brent Key or Virginia Tech coach Brent Pry. The guys discuss a new ACC Power Ranking released by Athlon Sports.
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[@paulbegansky5650]

Thank you for being realistic on fsu/Clemson. Hope for a conclusion soon.

[@FatherandSonHavingFun]

You guys are excited because ESPN is paying the ACC cheaply....WOW

[@john-mc4zo]

It makes cents espn should pick up there 2015 prices not 2030s

[@CalvinTaylor-xo6ih]

Doesnt each team have to sign the grant of rights again

[@tomsmithdeal8286]

Yes. There is a separate page to sign for every school.

[@timothyblack3322]

Alex & Kenton, I have grown to enjoy the Show, I am a Cherokee by Heritage aka lineage. My Grandmother came from the North Carolina Tribe & every year we attended Pow Wow’s learning about the “Trail of Tears”. Growing up in Tallahassee I started attending FSU Football games at 11 yrs old. I am a Seminole, but ESPN may have shot their wad being the SEC Soley broadcast rights. At this time ESPN needs money & that ACC Network accomplished moving ACC Games off ESPN main channel to a channel your carrier may or may not have. Either the ACC or Big XII will drop from their Power Conference Status. The good news is Miami & NC State have multiple Power Conference options. That includes the possibility of ACC failure. Keep smiling, spread ❤️ & ✌🏼brothers!

[@brettsteinbook5370]

Kenton is right about Mario. He's not going to get credit for recruiting. He's going to be penalized for lack of clock management. but Go Canes!

[@boweevil8390]

Well, I think It may be possible for ESPN to not renew in 2027 but sign a new contract with ACC. It will be for less money without Clemson and Florida State. ESPN is in business to make money. ACC contract is worth far less without FSU and Clemson.

[@shawnandrews329]

The thing about the ACC lawsuit that you mentioned briefly but didn't go into detail is a tv contact extension. Sure, ESPN can extend the contract, but as attorney Doug Rohan stated on another show, "The current ESPN/ACC contact has payouts only through the 2026 season. In the event of a contact extension, an amended contract would be required to agree to payout terms that, at present, are only through 2026. Regardless of whether ESPN chooses to extend or not extend, an amended contract t with ESPN or a new contract with some other media company would a 2/3rds "YES" by the ACC member schools. If 7 schools vote "NO," the ACC will be disbanded.

[@txcanesbeliever1316]

The crazy thing is all this fighting and Clemson and FSU don't even know if they are going to have a home except for the big 12.

[@shelbyp4880]

I hear the acc is figuring out a legit exit fee for acc teams. More than fsu & clemson will exit.

[@davidbrown386]

Shelby I agree. It will likely be UNC and Clemson to the SEC and Miami and Florida St to the Big 10. Under that scenario UNC will be making more then DOUBLE the $ of NCST, Duke & WF

[@jmath1978]

​@@davidbrown386I dont believe UNC will leave the ACC because they would go from the most beloved college program in North Carolina to the Most hated 😮

[@davidbrown386]

Do you think UNC likes having to pay out $ from the House Settlement as well as an additional $20m plus a year to athletes going forward, while making

[@mickeyn.5059]

​@davidbrown386 The Big10 is only considering ND at this time. FSU has absolutely NO CHANCE of getting into the Big10. NONE, ZIP, ZERO.

[@williamlewis3977]

​@@jmath1978Say you don't understand fans without saying you don't understand fans. Check

[@clemsondane6594]

My thing is…. Maryland was allowed to leave the conference by paying an exit fee of $31 million…. Why can’t the ACC just adjust that figure for inflation and just let us go? Since the conference is so solid with ESPN and all; they clearly don’t need lil ole Clemson or FSU. 🤭

[@thatcollegefootballguy]

The new Grant of Rights was created because of how little Maryland had to pay to leave. The ACC wanted to make it a financial burden to leave the conference early. Most likely this will be negotiated down to around $300 million. We will then see how many can actually afford to leave.

[@jmath1978]

NO that's to easy for FSU and CLEMSON if they want to leave they need to pay the maximum amount $500 million! So you think the ACC is supposed to let the top 2 teams in the league go for peanuts? This ain't no video game they need to pay up!

[@tomsmithdeal8286]

@@jmath1978how much did FSU receive in payout? Was it the same as BC? Then they would not have to pay more than BC to get out. You can’t charge a team more unless they were paid more. Your point about FSU/CU being the two most valuable teams in the conference is exactly why they need to leave. FSU alone earned $132+m for the ACC. And got back $44.8m. I know you love it but why would they? It’s long past time for your team to pay their own way.

[@jmath1978]

@@tomsmithdeal8286 Because bonehead they are part of a conference where everything is supposed to be split evenly do you think those 2 Universities would get paid more than everyone else in the Big 10 or SEC? Stop bringing cake a$$ comments to me!🥞🥞🥞🤗

[@brianfsu875]

Here is my other questions I want answered: (1) Why did Phillips lie at the ACC media days? When asked about this option, he claimed it was NOT an Option, but instead a "Look In"... That was a lie... NO character!; (2) If ESPN was always going to grant this extension all along, per Hale, then why did it ask for more time from Phillips in 2021 (the original deadline to execute the option), to push the decision until 2025? You do not ask for more time to think about an "amazing deal" when you have the deadline looming; (3) Why did Phillips grant ESPN more time to think about the option if he and everyone in the ACC knew all along that ESPN would grant the extension? It is foolish and risky to give your ESPN benefactor more time to pull the deal on you in 4 years, when there are multiple major deals to negotiate between 2021 and 2025 (NBA, CFB Playoff, BIG, Big 12, and PAC were all up for market in those years). It is not like the dollars changed, the ACC was paid the same regardless; and (4) If the ACC was so confident in its position with ESPN, then Phillips should have had leverage to use in 2021 when ESPN asked for more time, to ask for something?... more money in the meantime, something... instead, he gave them more time for nothing... You only grant ESPN more time for nothing if you are worried if you ask for anything ESPN may just pull the whole deal in 2021... that is my point. Anyone who is an attorney or in business can see that. I like you guys, even if you are nasty to FSU... but you should be asking the above questions.

[@johnfreed7733]

They are desperate! They are also toast as in dead man walking. Just throw dirt on the league it's dead. As for this report it's a bit of a homer and meaningless.

[@jmath1978]

​@@johnfreed7733Boy you ACC haters are going to continue to hate!😢😊

[@delanesimmons5933]

​@@jmath1978right! They truly believe the league can't exist with fsu. So sad

[@encycl07pedia-]

@@delanesimmons5933 You do know the Big East is still around, too? I mean just because they don't play football doesn't mean it doesn't exist. The ACC is looking a lot like that without FSU or Clemson, especially with all those former Big Least teams. The ACC can't continue to be a major conference without FSU or Clemson. It just can't barring some ridiculous chain of events that sees real contenders joining the ACC after all the contenders left.

[@MercerKnowsBall]

Here is your ANSWER. (1) Was it a LIE 9 years ago when the ACC Contract was Announced that is had 3 Look-Ins every 5 years? ACC must have been LYING 9 years ago if Phillips LIED about this recently, right? Why was there NO MENTION 9 years ago about Opt Ins? Because THAT is the LIE and you are spreading it. LIAR. (2) (3) (4) Because there is no Opt In. ESPN has not signed something that does not EXIST. Phillips cannot grant an extension to something that does not EXIST. That was the 1st Look-In that came and went with No Changes. ACC was supposed to have EXPANDED so that ESPN could offer MORE MONEY during the Look-In. But ACC did not Expand before the Last Look-In. No changes to the ACC = No Changes at the Look-In. You guys SUCK but it is your CONSTANT LYING that makes you the WORST fans on the planet. Can't WAIT until we KICK YOU OUT and you have NOWHERE to go.

[@WeSRT4]

If the ACC wants to stay viable they need to stop bringing in left over west coast teams. I just can't see where the conference can be competitive with 3 or 4 good programs and a ton of crap programs.

[@terryfox9344]

Kenton, no one in their right mind thought that ESPN would opt out. What's that? You say FSU fans thought that? The defense rests.

[@heartbreak25]

Why would ESPN decline the option because they only lose basically 15 football games a year? ESPN still needs basketball content and has invested tens of millions into the ACC Network that needs content. I used to be on the side the option was being declined. Then the more I thought about it, the more it doesn't make sense. It's like leaving a party you got in for free because the two hottest ladies left, but there are still some good looking women there.

[@arronfrazier7873]

Why didn’t ESPN opt in 2021? ESPN focus has been all about the SEC. That’s fine!

[@heartbreak25]

@@arronfrazier7873 They weren't contractually obligated to do so. They're focused on making money as a subsidiary to a public company. All this conference and team stuff is about fans. The shareholders could care less.

[@arronfrazier7873]

@@heartbreak25 yes, they where! It went from 2021 to 2025. That was an agreement which is a contract. There is reason, the agreement is redacted about 85%. If you believe its about trade secrets, I have swamp water to sell you here Florida.

[@heartbreak25]

@@arronfrazier7873 If they were contractually obligated then they couldn't request an extension, right? That's what the word obligation means.

[@rx2878]

Because 2020 was a train wreck for everything

[@jamiethornton6101]

It's very interesting. My biggest argument to what he's saying they are waiting on (small stuff like scheduling windows) could've been completed since 2021. I know someone at ESPN and he claims the final decision hasn't been made yet. That doesn't mean they wont go through with the option. The reasons he gives why they haven't agreed yet are not very good ones.

[@MercerKnowsBall]

Have you paid your Bills for next year yet? Why not? I bet you cannot give me a good reason why you haven't.

[@delanesimmons5933]

Where do some of you get that you can't compete being in the ACC? So fsu and Clem were just given the national title huh? they didn't beat anyone for them huh? Even when yall leave, the ACC will still be a power 4 and will still get teams in the playoffs. Man y'all are blind 😂😂😂

[@leroyalbury5339]

I like this comment

[@MrTrevinhowell]

I'd listen to the only teams that have won a national title since you've been alive in the acc

[@na_k]

Power 4 in men's and women's college basketball, soccer, baseball, gymnastics, no doubt, but not football. The B1G and SEC don't respect the ACC, and that's with FSU and Clemson. They just showed that last yr with an undefeated ACC team that beat multiple SEC schools. The ACC commissioner didn't even support his own conf like he should've. With those 2 gone they will not let the ACC play at the big boy table.

[@arronfrazier7873]

If ESPN wanted opt in, they would have done it on the original date in 2021. Understand something, no conference signed a tv deal over than 12 years in the last 30years. The pac10 signed a 12 year deal and they only have two teams left

[@MercerKnowsBall]

Why haven't you paid all of your RENT for the next 10 years?

[@elicabelly2119]

ESPN hasn't opted in yet. Since the schools didn't vote on the amendment that extended the buy-in option, that amendment is invalid. FSU and Clemson will make that argument, and it's a slam dunk argument. Therefore, they won't have the chance to opt in. Then we'll have to see where this goes, who goes where, and if FSU and Clemson are willing to eat some humble pie and admit that they need the Big Ten or the SEC, that those conferences don't need them.

[@MercerKnowsBall]

Lots of dumnasses agree with you. Have you paid your Rent for the next 10 years already? Why not? You should Opt In on that Rent or your Landlord might kick you out.

[@gcoj1577]

Sounds more like you need some that humble pie. I'll agree, SEC needs FSU less, than FSU needs SEC. But, B1G, they need FSU more than FSU needs them.

[@shallojalloh]

Kenton is in denial. JP vehemently said the deal was til 2036. The deal clearly states the re-up is in 2027. How is that a win for tht ACC

[@scrappyv1]

Donno had me dying driving with that Boston College joke

[@EthanCohen-r2p]

I do not find McKenzie to be polarizing. Dude knows what he is talking about.

[@robertsanders6858]

Agreed

[@melo84bailey95]

Florida state don't need A Sthe ACC Florida state. Made the ACC remember that shit.

[@michaelscott358]

I hope the ACC extends to Oregon, Washington, San Diego, and Boise State Cal & Stanford need a west wing

[@MercerKnowsBall]

AGREED that is exactly why Arizona, Utah, Kansas, Oklahoma St, Texas Christian and Tulane are all headed into the ACC before 2031. No G5s need apply. Except Tulane in their HUGE Market and great Academics

[@na_k]

Oregon and Washington are already headed to the B1G. They wouldn't even look at that invitation. And adding those teams looks more like a G5 conference move than a P5. The ACC has already added SMU, a G5 program who never even won the American conference. Might as well add Memphis and Tulane, programs that have.

[@na_k]

​@@MercerKnowsBallAll of this is unlikely. The ACC has a commissioner in Philips with little to no foresight and is reactive. On the other hand, the Big XII commish, Yormark, had ESPN trying to kill off his conference. He was proactive enough to add quality programs and keep the Big XII afloat. He will not allow Philips to pull teams from his conference and I doubt Philips would anyway. He only added the scraps no one wanted (SMU, Stanford, Cal) because FSU and Clemson are threatening to leave, not to strengthen the conference.

[@MercerKnowsBall]

@@na_k Really? No foresight? Why is it that the ACC has a current Contract and Plan of Action that is (1) KEEPING all of its teams IN the ACC instead of already LOSING Multiple Teams when the B!G and SEC WANTED to grab them? And (2) Why is it the ACC got the Biggest SCORE in recent Expansion below the Power 2 Level despite SUPPOSEDLY moving After the Big 12? And why is Notre Dame still in the ACC and going to STAY in the ACC through 2036? I'll tell you. It is due to FORESIGHT. The ACC knew 9 years ago that the B1G and SEC were on the prowl to Expand at this time. So it GOT a 20 year TV Deal so it could get a 20 year GOR. Without it FSU is already GONE... not still trying to get out. And various other ACC teams are gone. Without FORESIGHT the ACC does not almost DOUBLE the Population in it's Footprint and Double the Top 50 TV Markets in its Footprint. I knew through my connections to the certain ACC schools that the ACC was going to add Stanford and SMU 3 YEARS AGO (Cal was a surprise to me). That info doesn't get to ME that far in advance WITHOUT FORESIGHT. STUPID PEOPLE call that SCRAPS. Wait until the ACC starts taking the MEAT. AND Notre Dame SIGNED a Contract that guarantees it will not join ANY OTHER CONFERENCE for Football before 2036 unless that Conference is the ACC. ND isn;t joining the ACC for Football. But it also is not LEAVING for the B1G until at least 2036 WHICH STYMIES B1G Expansion until at least 2036. The B1G might still grab FSU if it can get out of the GOR before 2036. But the B1G WILL NOT expand past 20 without Notre Dame. As for Yarmork. He has NO FORESIGHT. He had ESPN tell him EXACTLY what to do and he DID WHAT HE WAS TOLD. And he CANNOT stop the ACC from raiding his conference because of FORESIGHT by the ACC who INVESTED in THEMSELVES 9 years ago when they committed to Building the ACC Network. Due to the ACCN (and the ESPN TV Deal) the ACC has made itself EXTREMELY VALUABLE to ESPN and due to recent Expansion has made itself RICH through the ACCN. Next year ALONE (with MORE to COME) the ACC will EARN $10+ Million More (for each school) due to the effect the Expansion will have on ACCN Revenue. AND The ACC will receive $26 Million MORE (for each school) due to their TV Contract AND their Investment in the ACCN. Before I lose you. The ACC already EARNS this $26 Million but has not been able to claim it as REVENUE because it was SPENDING IT on Building the ACCN. It was being SPENT as an INVESTMENT. Now that the ACCN is PAID OFF that additional INCOME is no longer an EXPENSE... which mans it is now REVENUE. AND There is even MORE $$$ coming to the ACC this year and every year going forward, Money that Yarmork is not getting for the Big 12. Not even IF they get Private Equity. The Big 12 LOST this arms race 9 years ago, but doesn;t know it yet. Big 12 $ is NOW 2/3 ACC $. That is a FACT. And AFTER the ACC takes the Best BRANDS and MARKETS away from the Big 12. WHEN that happens ACC $ is going to be 2X Big 12 $. Wait until NEXT JUNE when the UNINFORMED (like yourself) start to find out what I knew 9 years ago and 3 years ago.

[@MercerKnowsBall]

@@na_k WHAT? ESPN was trying to KILL the Big 12 until Yarmork saved it? Where do you clowns get these RIDICULOUS FABLES? LMAO ESPN called YARMORK and offered him without ANY WORDS FROM HIM everything that YARMORK is celebrated for getting from ESPN. And YARMORK did not add ANY of the G%s they were added BEFORE he arrived. As for Phillips he has no reason to REACT he has to FOLLOW the PLANS the ACC put in place 9 years ago (and they are working btw). ACC has already set itself up to THRIVE and it had Stanford and SMU on the hook BEFORE the PAC knew it was even SICK. As if the Big 12 would not take Stanford over anybody it got LMAO. Stanford did not jump at the chance to play in all of the Truck Stop Locations because they knew they had a BETTER OPTION. Utah also knows that NOW but didn't know it then. So do at least 2 other current Big 12 schools. They know they have a better Option in the ACC - they just have to WAIT FOR IT a little longer. There is a REASON Yarmork has already moved on to UConn instead of waiting for an ACC Implosion that is NEVER coming.

[@davidbrown386]

Do you know who is looking good? Maryland. They were smart enough to get out of the ACC when they did. I am sure FSU, Louisville, UNC & UVA are regretting signing up for the ACC and that awful GOR.

[@na_k]

Yep. ACC fans and programs like to joke on Maryland, but they were the smartest program in the conference to get out when they did.

[@josephmclawhorn]

Yep Maryland is sure looking good.They competed in recruiting and for titles in the ACC . Now they can’t recruit in Big territory and has been in the Bottom 3rd in all sports in the Big 10. I’m sure some fans wish they were back home in the ACC instead of being a door mat in the Big 10 what has the man net done for you

[@MackinNC1]

@@josephmclawhorn spot on.

[@scottmorrison147]

Geez. The ACC has the most natties over the past 3 seasons. If anything, they should be paid more!

[@The_Makr_]

FSU fans, bless their hearts.

[@chirocket4791]

Any school can leave, but the whole issue is the exit fee. This litigation is going to drag out.

[@tomsmithdeal8286]

Depends on what you mean by drag out. It will all be wrapped up in less than 12 months no matter how hard the ACC tries. They will run out of appeals.

[@jlamm2223443]

It's a shame you have these super biased pro-FSU sites that don't want to say one tiny thing that their viewers don't want to hear. I stopped listening to them although I am an FSU fan. Objectivity is a good thing.

[@JohnLin-db3ci]

I listen to a few regularly, nobody seems interested in scenarios that could keep FSU happy in the ACC.

[@deadeye4520]

Objectively, you need to read some court documents.

[@jlamm2223443]

@@JohnLin-db3ci Is that for sure!

[@505premoto]

@@JohnLin-db3ciBecause there are none. The P2 schools get $8m more in playoff money. And when the ACC payout is projected to be $57m, the B1G payout is projected to be over $80m. FSU begged and pleaded with the ACC in good faith for years to address the issue and the welfare check schools gave them the middle finger. They are about to reap what they have coming to them. And they deserve it. Last year, the ACC total revenue was $706.6m. CFB was 80% of it or $565m. FSU had 23.5% of the total viewership or $132m of it. By comparison, VT’s share was $16m. That is irreplaceable. The ACC knows it. That’s why the ACC is fighting so hard. Has nothing to do with ethics or principle as they have none. ESPN is not going to renew the contract at its current level knowing that FSU/CU are not going to be there much longer and no one watches the rest of the conference. Expect the ACC to get a new offer from ESPN reflecting the loss of the teams that get watched. They brought it on themselves.

[@jmath1978]

FSU might want to end staying in the ACC because if they leave I believe they will make more money but they will be black balled from winning another National Championship!

[@nategz9875]

I think SMU has the money the buy the best players and compete nationally. SMU, Florida State, Clemson, Miami, and Norte Dame can bring the ACC back to relivancy. Georgia Tech amd Stanford have the potential the be great too.

[@EricBurns-d4o]

ND will never join the ACC if they join a conference it will be the BIG

[@jeffreywilcox9510]

It's hilarious is one head he uses an analogy about a comparing losing money and pretending it ok and on then other hand saying espn will pay the same for something that will be making less money. Espn is only getting a good deal because of fsu and Clemson. They make up like a third of the revenue

[@TheCoxMan]

It's not about Clemson or FSU hating the ACC and wanting to get out. A lot of you are butt hurt thinking that's the reason. If the ACC were anywhere close with what the Big 10 and SEC get in revenue and coverage I guarantee they wouldn't be looking to get out. But they know if this contract remains the same the ACC is done for; they won't be to keep up with the current times and the ACC is kaput. 2036 is a long way away. I mean the ACC has great tv coverage and programming right? Hardly even showed the softball and baseball tournament or regionals on the ACC Network; opting for field hockey highlights or a weekend in Boston. Don't you look forward to the games on the WB Network or whatever they're on compared to prime time ABC-Fox-CBS, or ESPN? No one is lobbying for the ACC or its teams and thats a problem.

[@rx2878]

ESPN primary Business is NOT advertising....its carriage fees. The ACC Network pays for itself by collecting carriage fees. FSU-mid-12 People don't understand how media deals work. TX/OK gone. Ratings are a secondary issue to ESPN as strange as it sounds. That's the reason people can't really harm ESPN or the NBA. Even if cable cord cutting continues ESPN will still just raise fees and even Comcast will pay it. I could write a book on it and run circles around the "speculators" The ACC Fans in the know... just know more. The ACC fans do watch John Skipper podcast on Dan Le Batard show network. You're welcome.

[@heartbreak25]

I don't think people understand this part. It's why the B1G continues to earn the most money despite having an inferior product to the SEC.

[@rx2878]

@@heartbreak25 After getting low balled by ESPN the B1G 10 they made the right pivot combining multiple networks FOX, NBC & CBS. Smart play. Prime Time slots are the gold key. CBS lost the SEC. The next level will be like the NBA combining network deals with tech streaming packages like Amazon & Netflix. Will leagues like the B1G 10 pivot away from a recalibrated CBS/Paramount post Skydance merger to the wealthiest tech Streaming partners? David Ellison is a USC guy, who knows... Even the SEC is making gestures: "Netflix is closing in on a deal with the SEC to give it the immersive documentary"

[@heartbreak25]

@@rx2878 Fox, ESPN, and Warner Bros are launching their combined sports app this fall. We'll just have to see how that goes because with enough subscribers, there will be the best of both worlds. I still don't see streaming as the immediate future like most. The average college football fan is still over 40 years old so channel guides in a single interface are still important. And until Netflix and Amazon can actually get quality match ups like Bama vs LSU or Oregon vs Michigan then they're just overspending. I think traditional streaming is going to be dictated by whether the elite programs want to exclusively play on their platforms. Right now, there would be a ton of fan resistance. Especially if there's an all-in-one app that had year round sports coverage of the NFL, college, NBA, and MLB.

[@jmath1978]

ESPN IS the reason if CLEMSON and FSU leave the ACC they will be black balled!

[@rx2878]

​​@@heartbreak25 College football rest in a precarious situation on one side betraying it's tradition and tenets for profit. On the other side not adapting against the much stronger NFL. The NFL is already trying to cannibalize the entire week and every possible event window including NFL on Netflix Christmas day. Remember this all happened because ESPN and John Skipper couldn't secure more NFL content so College football became more sought-after. The point maybe that CFB sees itself now in direct quasi competition with the NFL and other leagues as a "Pro Sport" Thus they will chase media deals streaming & subscribers. "Netflix has Come for Live Sports: NFL on Christmas on Netflix | The Sporting Class"

[@jusmique1]

Nobody is watching Duke and WF

[@1mgofepinephrine120]

Why is Kenton so gleeful over the fact that his program is stuck in a situation that will preclude them from competing nationally? I guess NCST was really never a program that mattered anyway.

[@jlamm2223443]

Well it is fun to be right. But beyond that, NCST has no bid to the SEC or Big 10. The ACC is a good conference. Unless you can reasonably expect a bid to the big 2, being number 3 is not bad. There are so many pro-FSU sites that are so very biased. I have to admit a little joy to see mud in their eye.

[@TallyHo850]

He’s a real idiot I wake up every day hoping he’s replaced Candace was a way better host he’s so bias it’s pathetic he is the type of person that will cut off his hand to spite you he doesn’t care about his program it doesn’t matter how they feel FSU an Clemson are going to leave period get over it

[@TallyHo850]

@@jlamm2223443the Acc is trash 😂😂😂an will be deleted 😂😂

[@TallyHo850]

What you idiots don’t understand is why would ESPN pay the same if it’s two best programs are going to leave who wants to watch wake forest play or Boston college or the rest of the bottom feeders smh 🤦

[@TexanMark]

FSU fans are irrational. You realize all you have to be is in the Top 12? The SEC and B1G are about to see lots of elite programs with 3-6 losses.

[@chuckwilson8006]

Just found you guys -- enjoyed the show! Already hit the subscribe button! Maybe I'm being sensitive, but it feels a little bit like people are sleeping on my Cards -- but we'll see soon. Football is so great! Keep up the great work!

[@ianfg8082]

Question. If ESPN is going to opt in, why haven't they done so already?

[@StormyCyclone]

ESPN should have optated in at media days, but not doing that would have me concerned.

[@thaikev]

If its fiscal year ends on December 31st, you wait until after the New Year to extend so that the long-term liability is kept off the books. This accounting practice makes the ESPN division or business come across as much more profitable.

[@becks89]

Networks don’t opt in until they have to. A lot can happen between. Ow and February 1, 2025 so there is no reason for them to opt in. Additionally, ESPN is likely researching new revenue streams to placate the ACC schools. Even if they can’t do enough to appease fsu and Clemson it’s in their best interest to keep as many members together as possible. What ESPN will not do is just allow FSU, Clemson and others to become free agents. No chance.

[@davidbrown386]

Except ESPN has had 3 years to opt in ( based on the unilateral extension).

[@becks89]

@@davidbrown386 just curious then why don’t you think they’ve not opted in yet? Wouldn’t the same rationale apply that if they intended to not opt in then they would’ve made an announcement?

[@JackMaley-q5t]

Kenton and McKenzie should hang out together. Kenton’s analogies are as bad as McKenzie’s predictions and takes on the FSU vs ACC court case in Leon County. He’s been wrong every time. Both of these guys are clueless and the only thing they are good at is producing “click bait”.

[@rlhaff3560]

Are you celebrating this? Do you REALLY think dying a slow financial death over the next decade is a GOOD thing??? It's unbelievable that you guys don't get it?! NO ACC team can compete on a National level under the current deal... maybe you don't care about football??? lol man what a lame conference, one that doesn't care about competing with the best...

[@StormyCyclone]

Spot on guy, ESPN in the business to make $, not to risk a 9 year deal to save ACC. If FSU & Clemson leave that is 35 percent of ACC viewership & media deal. ESPN is waiting to see how this plays out before opting in, that is a good business decision. This Kenton guy realizes he might not have a job, he sounds like some people I heard in PAC 12 denial.

[@davidbrown386]

Kenton will have a job: Locked On Wolfpack which will be about as lucrative as Locked on WF Demon Deacons, after UNC joins Clemson and FSU in a better Conference.

[@jmath1978]

LAME? What makes you think that these other conferences are going to be making big money the way this country is going? Ok yeah right people are going to be still invested in college football when they cant afford a Cheeseburger or less a peanutbutter and Jelly sandwich! Many College football fans are delusional about the whole picture of everything because they are not figuring in the economy of our country!🥺😪

[@MichaelSmith-xb5cp]

​@jmath1978 Pandemic was a test run for CFB with empty stadiums...they figured out a way to still make money without a single fan, or non paying fans. Viewership is just a BS argument tool....Any pontential conference champ will gather eyeballs when it gets toward late season...and just continue through post season....EVEN IF IT WAS VANDERBILT or Wake Forest.

[@encycl07pedia-]

@@jmath1978 The ACC is and has been horribly mismanaged. Two huge instances where the ACC just laid down and rolled over were negotiations with ND (absolutely absurd that Swofford allowed them to take advantage of the ACC like that) and the negotiations with the 12-team CFI. That's lame. The economy is cyclical. It will come back. The only question is when.

[@clemsondane6594]

Also, I feel like the ACC should sue ESPN for a more equitable deal. They’re clearly getting ripped off.

[@ronelite582]

How would that happen when the ACC as a whole stupidly agreed to the contractual agreement.

[@williamlewis3977]

Click bait title... respect lost. "We don't expect" is NOT the same as "they aren't". I'm not even saying the expectation is wrong but your title eludes to a decision, which we don't have.

[@LockedOnACC]

Title says “report”

[@jerrymorphew7427]

You should think about getting Billy embody to speak on SMU

[@mrmonkeysays]

Of course no league or school sources are telling an ACC/ESPN reporter they're expecting ESPN to not renew. You think they would say otherwise? This means nothing.

[@williamlewis3977]

Exactly! "We don't expect" is apparently now the "law"... Lol

[@brianroyster7510]

Why would ESPN agree to bid against their financial interest? Do you think that ESPN is going to act in the best interest of the game? The only way ESPN declines the extension option is if they figure out a way to make more $ by parting out the conference programs.

[@martinbernas1741]

Hey Donno, remember the Grant of rights and the Exit fee are two different things

[@FatherandSonHavingFun]

Kenton will be working for Locked on Big12 in 5 years and won't remember any of this....conveniently.

[@michaeldolan6234]

Kenton. Saving this and your take for later Bring ketchup. Goes well w crow.

[@MarkBosler850]

Well this title is click bait

[@dg1019]

No click bait like ACC/FSU click bait

[@MrAitraining]

No they declined the option to decline at a later date and declining to over extend the extension

[@GeorgeBarrett-u1m]

Kenton you are sooo right fsu is just spending money to spend money

[@tomsmithdeal8286]

It’s their money. Why do you care and, quite obviously, you do.

[@toast803]

I've lost respect for David McKenzie. Would love to read his posts, but he blocks people for no apparent reason on X. Only thing I can assume is he blocked me because of association or religion.

[@scottkinnebrew7924]

He is petulant child only seeking to spread propaganda and gets mad when anyone asks the most obvious questions about his logically discordant opinions.

[@MrDubyadee1]

FSU fan here. I think Norvell would have to get to the playoffs and win at least 1 game. Anyone else needs to win the ACC championship. I suppose you could make a case that if BC or WF made the championship game and lost that would be enough.

[@haskellinstallsmusicman6148]

Virginia Tech coach has the best chance.

[@igotthekeiskeithmoore4719]

So why hasn't ESPN already extended the agreement. Make It Make Sense. "It doesn't pass smell the taste."

[@TexanMark]

Not unless...controversy is good for ratings.

[@arronfrazier7873]

@@TexanMarkratings has nothing to do with it.

[@arronfrazier7873]

That option was supposed to be picked up in 2021. It magically gets extended to 2025 on behalf of Acc commissioner and Acc BB Tobacco Road schools. That was supposed to be voted on by all ACC schools. We know damn well, it would have been voted down by the schools who want compete in CFB.

[@cadenliams1]

Watch all the bad calls the ACC refs will be biased against Clemson and FSU. I know a guy who’s writing an AI program that will measure all the data points of the refs calls in pivotable and non-pivotable plays.

[@brianfsu875]

More specific question is: "If, as Hale states it, granting the ACC extension would greatly hurt FSUs case and protect the ACC, and if ESPN is planning to grant it... why have they waited until now to allegedly leak this to Hale, which is only after the news become public beyond FSUs allegations in its claim?" If they are going to do it, then they are idiots to let all of this go on this long... Could have cut FSUs knees months ago. Frankly, it may not matter though since the legal issues for what Phillips did, do not go away even if the extension is granted... it just takes one leg out of the argument. I sense weakness in the ACC camp more than ever. I just hope it all comes crashing down. I started this by hoping the best for the ACC without FSU, now, I hope the worst for that conference in how nasty everyone has been. Really lost respect for a lot of people the last 6 months. FSU has no home in the ACC... it has to move on no matter what, if it can. Bridges burned forever.

[@jmath1978]

FSU is burning bridges with ESPN with there toxic selves!

[@foreverorangegirl44]

28:50 CHAOS CUSE is comin’, Kenton! 🍿🧡🍊🏈🎯

[@xrexc3179]

Im amazed that you guys cant seem to grasp the concept that the revenue gap between the ACC and the big 2 IS AN EXISTENTIAL THREAT! If the status quo is maintained the best the teams in the ACC can hooe for is to become feeder teams that the big 2 poaches all of the decent players from. Thats best case scenerio! Maybe you two arent really fans of the teams you represent. If you were , why the hell wouldnt you be arguing for thise teams to be on equal footing instead of cheering about a death sentence

[@URKNIGHTMARE69]

man I tell u what this bout lamest shit I ever seen and heard. espn ain’t got no damn interest in the acc. their concern is gone be getting as many sec teams in 12 team playoff. what was it at end season they put in another 3 billion into the conference

[@VBHokie]

The ACC by not opting-in will no longer have to pay for Syracuse, Wake, Cal, Stanford, Pitt and others. ESPN is hemorrhaging 💰💰💰 - they want to stop spending on teams that don't bring 👀!!! This is not rocket science.

[@thomasmontgomeryjr7496]

FSU gone you all clowns conference have fun after 2027!!! 😅😂😂😂😂😂

[@jmath1978]

Dont count on that hater!😘

[@Mar2bv]

Do these guys go live at 6am?

[@CFBEvaluator]

Crud info like always glad us real CFB fans know the truth whats going on..cheers guys🤣🤣🤙🏾

[@MichaelSmith-xb5cp]

FSU biased fanboys(and I include every B12 Utuber as well) have been ridiculous click-bait since the season ended, waste of time. FSU, if they really want out, just needs to pony up and pay the remaining teams an offer they can't refuse. It's clear that they either have not the juice nor the appetite to pull that off.

[@tomsmithdeal8286]

FSU is in a business dispute with the ACC and, when the dust settles, will exit the conference for around $200m. Their contract is not with Wake Forest but the ACC. You keep posting the same thing over and over.

[@MichaelSmith-xb5cp]

@tomsmithdeal8286 The ACC IS the remaining teams ...FSU WILL PAY for every win over an ACC team supplied by the ACC, and PAY BIG , best believe that. There are over 150 wins since FSU signed on the dotted line when they joined....do the math.

[@tomsmithdeal8286]

@@MichaelSmith-xb5cp I can’t stop laughing. FSU performed work for the money that they were paid and that money was far less than what they earned. Why doesn’t the ACC exert your juvenile claim in their lawsuit? Have you tried contacting them to have them amend their lawsuit? I am sure that they would really want to hear from you. I can get you their number if you need it, as soon as can stop laughing.

[@thomascoker7703]

Sound happy to be on the cheap???

[@jmath1978]

It's not cheap The big 10 and SEC are just way overrated and over paid!😢

[@Lastorder10032]

ACC Won't survive without Fsu and Clemson you know that right the goal here is to win championships you arent going to if your gonna add teams like California or smu your way outta touch with reality kenton😂 Who do you think is gonna pick up the slack California? Acc is dead

[@jamespruett2849]

Guessing Kenton might be thinking SMU

[@rx2878]

But wait, David MacKenzie is an actual intellectual property attorney. He is THE subject matter expert. Maybe if he was an FSU alum abundance chaser who practiced law in Georgia to bail out rappers all day...just maybe he would get the more consideration.... or maybe he needs he needs more random FSU and big-12 burner accounts for the "credibility."

[@tomsmithdeal8286]

And that same David McKenzie, who blocks anyone who disagrees with him, has stated unendingly, that the case against FSU is a slam dunk for the ACC. The GOR is ironclad. Sure thing there David. As long as the ACC could get the matter handled by an ACC-homer judge, they might have prevailed but having lost that huge advantage, are now at a disadvantage themselves. If you think that the ACC case is a slam dunk then you are mistaken.

[@rx2878]

@@tomsmithdeal8286 Read this message as if it was written in Crayon 🖍 Double down. Tldr. Frivolous lawsuit. Doesn't have a real case. Can not prove damages. The end.

[@francoisdillinger9992]

To all the FSU Fans. Please use your critical thinking skills and understand this: ESPN, with other partners, agreed to pay the Charlotte Hornets $230m plus per year for eleven years to broadcast their games. You're telling me that UNC Basketball, Football, Baseball, etc is only worth $40 plus million a year, but the Hornets are worth $230 Plus? You think ESPN is gonna give up that contract for twelve years, especially when they go DTC and need content to fill their catalog to get people to subscribe? I mean, this is content in the top media markets on the east coast of the USA, where 70% of the country lives. These are educated, young DMA's like NY, Boston, Philly, Pitt. DC, Raleigh, Charlotte, Atlanta. There is no chance, in blue hell. that any TV executive is gonna throw the ACC/ESPN contract in the toilet. NONE! Also, you don't think 2/3 of the ACC schools are gonna agree to sign? You playin yourselves dog! 🤣

[@tomsmithdeal8286]

Talk about getting played. ESPN knows that FSU/CU are not going to be in the ACC for most of the extension (2027-2036) and that they represent 40% of the value of the conference. FSU had 23.5% of the viewership last season and UNC had 6.7%. ESPN is not going to pay what they pay now for a commodity that dropped by almost half in value. And the ACC will agree with it because they have no choice. That is the grim reality that all the other schools are in deep denial about.

[@tomsmithdeal8286]

Actually UNC isn’t worth $40m a year. Their football team generated $26.7m and that was 80% of their total.

[@francoisdillinger9992]

@@tomsmithdeal8286 That's actually not true. You didn't allocate the revenue from the ACC contract with ESPN into those numbers, did you. Also, the ACC revenue from that contract is low because FSU insisted on a "legacy network" like the SEC, so those media revenue numbers could be higher, with a short contract, but the FSU and Clemson leadership, who helped negotiate the deal, made poor decisions. Kinda like spending close to $100m in litigation fees to sue your own conference, just to alienate the only other two conference homes that are worth going to.

[@tomsmithdeal8286]

@@francoisdillinger9992 Determining the revenue generation of each school is rather easy. The ACC received $706.6m last year. CFB is 80% of the total revenue or $565m. Eyeballs =Money. FSU has 23.5% of the viewership which is $132m. I guarantee you that ESPN would not challenge that number.

[@francoisdillinger9992]

@@tomsmithdeal8286 Where did you find the 80% number? Please quote the source. Also, that number has to vary because some basketball programs are more valuable than others as well. Finally, what % would you allocate to quantity of product? Remember, these companies, especially ESPN, are content warehouse. They need volumes of content to air on their many networks.

[@kevinabell4690]

It’s click bait

[@herbertsutton4255]

Football can't be Olympic sport . What type of commentary is that?😂😂😂😂

[@joj2796]

GO BEARS!

[@fakereality96]

Roll on!!!

[@TallyHo850]

Keaton you are delusional if you think ESPN will pay the same to the Acc when the true money makers are gone smh your conference is not worth it without Clemson and FSU I’m willing to bet everything I own it will be a totally different deal that needs a new GOR

[@pjtarheel]

The “true money makers” are under contract until 2036 and are going nowhere. And of course espn is going to renew the sweetheart deal they have, unless the ACC can somehow negotiate something better for the league.

[@TallyHo850]

@@pjtarheel just like a bottom feeder to be upset because you’re free ride is over hope you enjoy being in thrash Acc making peanuts 🥜 while Clemson an FSU walk off into the sunset 🌅 💰 😂😂😂😂

[@505premoto]

@@pjtarheelI presume that this is a parody account. There is not one serious person that thinks that FSU/CU will be in the ACC in 2030 much less 2036.

[@TexanMark]

I love anonymous KZbin bets. What are you putting up?

[@TallyHo850]

@@TexanMarkthese 🌰’s😂😂😂

[@willieworkman9616]

Gravy train over for yall .. go noles

[@vistatiger7493]

Lol. The Miami and NCState moochers of the ACC have to get a job soon or maybe they should try to win a few football titles and help carry their own weight.

[@CFBEvaluator]

Facts ‼️ 🤣🤣

[@hcopenhagenh]

Gibbs & Donno = Dumb & Dumber

[@johnfridayxiii8455]

ACC is going to play football on WB. It's not worth it when FSU and Clemson leave. Getting left behind

[@martinbernas1741]

The Big 12 is still on fox and they have no Decent programs

[@jmath1978]

There is no way FSU and CLEMSON leave the ACC unscathed can you say Blackballed?

[@jmath1978]

@Tally850 what a coward!

[@rx2878]

Cue sad Seminoles noises 😢

[@encycl07pedia-]

lol. FSU is leaving soon and you lsrs can't handle it. Who's your team again, Wake Forest?

[@jimrobinson1140]

I wish Clemson and Florida St would just leave. Go to the big or SEC and be a mid level team

[@rlhaff3560]

Believe me, we want to... who wants to be in a conference that does not want to compete on a national level!

[@brandonshannon4470]

So we’ll be a middle of the road team in another conference… but y’all are a middle of the road team in the acc and I don’t even know what your team is but if it’s not Clemson or Fla state you in fact are a middle of the road team

[@thomasmontgomeryjr7496]

😂 mid level 😂😂😂coming from acc homer

[@encycl07pedia-]

FSU has been beating B1G/SEC teams, including B1G/SEC champs, for decades. Why do you think FSU would be a mid-level team in another conference?