Ahead of the upcoming '25/'26 college football season, "MediaTalk" host Mike Reynolds discusses the changing dynamics of college football media rights with Kagan analysts Justin Nielson, Scott Robson, and Michael Johnson.

As the second season of the expanded College Football Playoff (CFP) begins, the analysts explore the significant changes and potential future playoff scenarios. With the Big Ten and SEC realignments altering the college football landscape, the discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities for top-ranked teams like the Texas Longhorns and Ohio State.

The podcast examines the growing rivalry between "College GameDay" and "Big Noon Kickoff," noting the addition of key personalities. The analysts also discuss the rise of streaming services such as ESPN's enhanced DTC app and Fox Sports One, and their implications for traditional linear TV.

A key — and somewhat controversial — development is the NCAA's recent settlement, which allows for revenue sharing with D1 athletes, potentially shifting college sports into a more professional domain. The conversation touches on how this change could affect competition and player transfers.

As the discussion turns to the future of college football playoffs, the panel considers the potential expansion from 12 to as many as 28 teams, reflecting on its impact on the sport's landscape and the tradition of bowl games.

More S&P Global content:

• The Business of Sports 
• Moneyball: The impact of sports media rights on the US video market

 

Featured experts:

• Justin Nielson, principal analyst at S&P Global Market Intelligence Kagan.

  Scott Robson, principal analyst at S&P Global Market Intelligence Kagan.

  Michael Johnson, research analyst at S&P Global Market Intelligence Kagan

Credits:

• Host/Author: Mike Reynolds
• Producer/Editor: Sarah James

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