The Sports Media Podcast Thanksgiving brings bountiful NFL numbers: Will Messi fans flock to Fox?: and the latest on the out-of-home sports TV distribution business.
Dec 4, 2025
Josh Carpenter, SBJ media and golf reporter, discusses NFL's record-setting Thanksgiving viewership and Netflix's strategic signing of Elle Duncan. Neema Ghazi, executive at Joe Hand Promotions, sheds light on the evolving landscape of out-of-home sports TV distribution. The duo dives into the implications of MLS's Messi effect on viewership, the stakes in college football conference championships, and how streaming is reshaping commercial distribution for bars and restaurants. A lively chat on the nexus of sports media and audience engagement!
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Messi Gives MLS A Linear TV Moment
- Messi in MLS Cup creates a rare TV draw opportunity, especially on Fox linear TV.
- Inter Miami vs. Vancouver could approach historical MLS final viewership benchmarks, but hitting 2M is uncertain.
Netflix Ramp-Up Signals Sports Ambitions
- Netflix is building sports presence and will increasingly compete for rights and talent.
- The platform is limiting talent cross-use, signaling it wants to be a top-tier live-sports player.
CBS Changes Golf Voice With Colt Knost
- CBS promoted Colt Knost to the golf booth, shifting tone from Ian Baker-Finch's long tenure.
- Expect a more energetic, witty style that may divide golf viewers.