NBC Has Just Two Super Bowl Ad Slots Left

The global economic crisis has caused more consternation than usual regarding the sale of ads during NBC’s broadcast of Super Bowl XLIII, but Dick Ebersol alleviates some concerns by announcing just two 30-second spots remain. The news is certainly welcomed in the ad industry, as sales seemingly had stagnated. If history is any indication, the peacock likely will not have much trouble unloading the remaining slots -- last-minute buys are not atypical, and Pepsi is already indicating it may increase its in-game spend. However, with 30-second spots reaching $3M, the game is becoming the target of ambush marketers. PETA claims NBC turned down its risqué "Veggie Love” ad, but columnists assert that PETA “never really intended to buy ad time” during the game and the spot “deliberately was created to be rejected.”

Taking A Creative Approach
Longtime IMG exec Bob Kain, just days after leaving the Browns, joins CAA Sports as a strategic advisor.

Drive For Show (And For Dough)
PGA of America set to announce a new sponsorship with Mercedes-Benz.

Ciao?
With David Beckham hinting at wanting to stay in Italy, his less-than-successful MLS experience could be coming to an end.

Gridiron Gang    
Dick Ebersol defends Matt Millen hiring, says Collinsworth is eventual heir to Madden's throne.

Bait & Switch
Marlins make several concessions to city, county in hopes of approval for ballpark plan.

The British Are Coming! 
Betfair gallops into U.S. thoroughbred market with $50M acquisition of horse racing net TVG.

Par For The Course
Callaway Golf sales drop for first time in years, but slight dip seems OK in tough market.

Stop Spreading The News
Super Bowl media credential requests down from '08, first decline in recent years.