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Pac-12 and CBS Sports Extend Partnership, Eye Expansion

12 months agoUS
Pac-12 and CBS Sports Extend Partnership, Eye ExpansionSource: apnews.com
The Pac-12 Conference and CBS Sports have extended their media rights partnership through the 2030-31 season. This deal solidifies CBS Sports as the primary long-term media partner for the new-look Pac-12 as it integrates new members and aims to expand its influence in college sports.

Key Insights

CBS Sports will broadcast a minimum of three regular-season football and men’s basketball games each season, along with the championship games for both sports.

The partnership aims to grow the conference and expand its reach across multiple platforms, including CBS, Paramount+, and CBS Sports Network.

The Pac-12 is set to add Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, Gonzaga (non-football), San Diego State, and Utah State in 2026-27, enhancing its competitiveness.

The conference is actively seeking to add one more football-playing, all-sports member to reach the minimum eight teams required for Football Bowl Subdivision status and College Football Playoff eligibility.

Oregon State and Washington State will have primetime slots on CBS this fall, showcasing the Apple Cup and a conference battle at Oregon State.

In-Depth Analysis

The Pac-12’s decision to extend its partnership with CBS Sports marks a pivotal moment for the conference, ensuring stability and visibility as it undergoes significant restructuring. With the addition of six new members in 2026-27, the Pac-12 is strategically positioning itself as a competitive force in college football and men’s basketball. The deal guarantees consistent coverage on major platforms like CBS and Paramount+, increasing exposure for the conference’s teams and athletes.

The new media rights agreement addresses the challenges the Pac-12 faced in securing a sustainable media deal, which previously led to the departure of several key members. By establishing CBS Sports as its primary media partner, the Pac-12 gains a reliable platform for showcasing its premier events and attracting a broader audience. The inclusion of additional games on CBS Sports Network further enhances the conference’s media presence.

Moreover, the Pac-12’s proactive approach to expansion underscores its commitment to maintaining a competitive football conference. The addition of a final football-playing member will be crucial for securing its status in the Football Bowl Subdivision and ensuring eligibility for the College Football Playoff. This strategic growth, combined with a robust media partnership, positions the Pac-12 for long-term success and relevance in the evolving landscape of college sports.

This multi-year agreement not only provides financial stability but also reinforces the conference’s ability to attract top talent and compete at the highest levels. The Pac-12 is betting on its enhanced media presence to drive revenue, fan engagement, and overall competitiveness, making it a key player in the future of college athletics.

FAQs

Q: What are the key benefits of the Pac-12’s partnership with CBS Sports?

The partnership provides guaranteed coverage of football and basketball games on major platforms, enhances the conference’s media presence, and ensures financial stability through 2031.

Q: Which teams are joining the Pac-12 in 2026-27?

Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, Gonzaga (non-football), San Diego State, and Utah State are set to join the Pac-12.

Q: Why is the Pac-12 looking to add another football-playing member?

To reach the minimum eight teams required for Football Bowl Subdivision status and College Football Playoff eligibility.

Key Takeaways

The Pac-12 has secured a long-term media partnership with CBS Sports, ensuring stability and visibility for the conference.

New members will join the Pac-12 in 2026-27, enhancing its competitiveness in football and basketball.

The conference is actively working to add a final football-playing member to solidify its position in the FBS and CFP.

This strategic restructuring positions the Pac-12 for long-term success and relevance in college sports.

Discussion

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