The Michigan state House approved by a 58-49 vote a plan to let Red Wings Owner Mike Ilitch's companies "apply for millions of dollars in Detroit tax breaks, clearing a hurdle to build" a proposed $650M downtown arena and entertainment district (DETROIT NEWS, 12/14).
Walt Disney and Cox Communications agreed to a long-term carriage deal covering 70 Disney networks including ESPN. Per the deal, Cox will launch authenticated service WatchESPN and add ESPNews and ESPN Classic to its live TV in-home app (Disney/Cox).
The Steelers and Cowboys have set up a "Social Showdown" in advance of their nationally televised game on Sunday. A twist on social media hashtag battles that have frequently occurred in the past, the two teams' social media departments are battling to see who can generate more new Facebook likes and Twitter followers before the end of the game (Eric Fisher, SportsBusiness Journal).
Verizon FiOS launched Watch NFL Network to its subscribers yesterday prior to the net’s Bengals-Eagles game (CABLEFAX DAILY, 12/14).
The Colorado State football team has agreed to two away games against Alabama at Bryant-Denny Stadium in '15 and '17 "in an agreement that will earn the Rams $3 million" (AP, 12/13). CSU coach Jim McElwain served as Alabama offensive coordinator for four years (THE DAILY).
