Big Ten Network in July became the first conference network to subscribe to Nielsen’s national ratings, and this football season will be the first time there will be national ratings attached to some of BTN’s biggest events. BTN execs identified several reasons why the channel decided to become Nielsen-rated. BTN President Francois McGillicuddy said that it is easier for networks to book ad sales when they are selling verifiable national numbers like those from Nielsen. Last year, when the net was measured in only 12 Big Ten markets (John Ourand, SBJ Media).
MCGUIRE OFF TOP NBC TEAM: The Athletic's Rick Carpiniello cited a source as saying that Pierre McGuire "has been removed" from NBC Sports' No. 1 hockey booth, and is "to be replaced" by former NHLer Brian Boucher. McGuire is "still going to be doing games for NBC," but not "on the No. 1 team" (TWITTER.com, 9/4).
ACC NET ADDS CARRIER: In Atlanta, Eric Jackson notes Cox and Disney have "reached a deal to carry" the ACC Network. The agreement "gives subscribers access to the new multi-platform network in all of Cox’ markets across the nation." Financial terms "weren’t disclosed." Disney’s deal with Cox "comes one week after" Dish Network agreed to a carriage deal (BIZJOURNALS.com, 9/5).
