The Powers That Be: Daily ESPN’s New Sports Multiverse
14 snips
Aug 7, 2025 
John Ourand, author of the Varsity Newsletter and host of the Varsity Podcast, joins Peter Hamby to unpick ESPN’s big announcements. They dive into ESPN's game-changing NFL broadcast deal and the upcoming direct-to-consumer service aimed at simplifying sports viewing. The conversation highlights the complexities of integrating various sports content and touches on the delicate balance between partnerships and journalistic integrity. With a mix of humor and insight, they also chat about the dynamics of media coverage in the sports world.
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ESPN's New Direct-to-Consumer App
- ESPN launches a direct-to-consumer app on August 21 to consolidate sports content.
- The app aims to attract subscribers but also props up existing cable bundles by offering free access to bundle subscribers.
App Access Depends on Providers
- Cable subscribers get free access to ESPN's app content as part of their bundle.
- YouTube TV negotiations with Disney could impact app access for its subscribers.
Vision of a Unified Sports Hub
- ESPN aims to create a unified sports hub app to watch multiple leagues and networks.
- This vision is long-term and depends on deals with networks like Fox, NBC, and CBS.