The Varsity Michael Nathanson’s Sports Media Pulse Check
15 snips
Jul 20, 2025 
Michael Nathanson, a star analyst at Moffett Nathanson, dives into the future of sports media. He discusses the decline of linear TV and ESPN's new direct-to-consumer service, while also addressing the rise of cord-cutting. Nathanson explores the innovative trend of 'eventizing' sports for better viewer engagement. He offers insights on Netflix’s profitability versus viewer engagement issues. The conversation touches on the complexities of media deals and the evolving landscape of streaming services, making for an enlightening listen!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
RSNs Maintain Local Audience Power
- Regional Sports Networks still command big local audiences despite industry challenges.
- Successful teams see significant viewership increases, illustrating local sports power.
Sports Rights Are Key Assets
- Sports rights are the key asset broadcasters must protect as other content loses money.
- Linear TV is shifting toward live sports, with many entertainment shows becoming unsustainable.
Streamers Eye NFL Premium Games
- Streamers like Apple, Netflix, and Amazon will push to acquire premium NFL games in future rights deals.
- The NFL may stratify games into tiers to sell high-value games to these new bidders.