YouTube in Talks to Stream First Exclusive NFL Game
Recently, the NFL has been expanding its partnerships beyond broadcast TV, with Amazon and Netflix among its new digital platforms. Now, reports suggest that YouTube is being considered as a potential partner for streaming NFL games.
According to The Athletic, YouTube is the front runner to stream its first exclusive NFL game on the Friday of the opening week. This would mark a significant shift, as YouTube is a free platform unlike Amazon and Netflix which require subscriptions. Therefore, this exclusive game would be accessible globally for free. YouTube TV subscribers may also have access to the game through their service.
Aside from being a milestone for YouTube, this potential partnership could also exploit a loophole in the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961. The Act prohibits the NFL from televising games on Fridays and Saturdays between September and December, reserved for high school and college games. However, the NFL can broadcast games on Black Friday if a majority is completed by 6 p.m. in the local market.
If YouTube secures the deal, the exclusive game would feature the Los Angeles Chargers in Brazil during Week 1. The opponent for the Chargers is set to be announced on May 13.
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