Overview

• Scott Hanson said he would welcome hosting a college football version of RedZone if asked by ESPN leadership.
• He highlighted key obstacles, including ESPN’s lack of rights to every conference, staggered kickoff windows and a broader roster of teams limiting viewer familiarity.
• ESPN’s August deal to acquire NFL Media and the RedZone brand grants naming rights but still needs government approval, which industry insiders estimate could take up to two years.
• Nexstar’s CW network will debut “CW Football Saturday Countdown” on September 13 at 4 p.m. ET with host Mike Yam alongside analysts Michael Bumpus and George Wrighster.
• Broader industry shifts include LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil noting reduced tensions among major tours and recent talent and programming moves at Yahoo Sports, The Athletic and Philadelphia’s 97.5 The Fanatic.