So the $700M was just POSTURING?
It’s no longer a question of $$$ being punitive BUT RATHER whether there’s an INVITE? FSU and Clemson must have the INVITE then. Which makes me think B1G. **** that can’t be good.
The ACC has been anywhere from "misrepresenting" to "flat out lying" regarding several topics.
1. The current ESPN media agreement goes through June 30, 2027 (through the 2026 season) and NOT until 2036.
2. The media agreement was signed and committed to ... before the GOR document was presented by the ACC ... and
no additional consideration was received BY THE MEMBERS for signing the GOR. Should not be valid.
3. REPORTEDLY ... by comments from both Clemson and FSU ... the ESPN media agreement (that is under lock and key at ACC HQ)
states clearly that the GOR is effective ONLY WHILE A SCHOOL IS A CONFERENCE MEMBER. Meaning, any school that leaves
the ACC leaves WITH their future media rights.
4. ESPN had an option to extend the media agreement from 2027 to 2036 ... that option expired in January 2021 and ESPN did not
exercise the option. Don't believe the ACC president advised the members. Phillips unilaterally granted ESPN an extension on that
option in August 2021, and that option must be exercised by 2/25. HOWEVER since that option was granted without the required 2/3
member approval, it is likely that it is VOID. It is also likely that ESPN will not exercise the option ... as they didn't in 2021 ... and the ACC
will be less attractive without FSU / Clemson and will not warrant the current media payout.
Clemson modified their suit earlier this week ... they are now requesting DAMAGES from the ACC. They want to leave with no cost and be paid damages as well.