What's Happening?
The Mountain West Conference has announced its comprehensive broadcast package for the 2026 football season, featuring 62 games, including 41 on national television. The CBS Sports Network will televise 14 games, while the CBS Television Network will air
one game. FOX Sports networks will broadcast 13 games, and The CW will cover 13 contests. Additionally, MW+, the conference's new subscription platform, will stream 21 games. The broadcast schedule includes multiple national broadcasts in 11 of the 14 weeks of the season, with the league being showcased on six Fridays. The season will kick off with North Dakota State hosting Jacksonville State on CBS Sports Network.
Why It's Important?
The extensive broadcast package highlights the growing visibility and popularity of the Mountain West Conference in collegiate football. By securing national television slots, the conference enhances its exposure, which can lead to increased fan engagement and potential revenue from advertising and sponsorships. The inclusion of a new subscription platform, MW+, indicates a strategic move to adapt to changing media consumption habits and offers fans more access to games. This development is significant for the conference's member schools, as it can boost recruitment efforts and elevate the profile of their athletic programs.
What's Next?
As the 2026 season approaches, the Mountain West Conference will finalize broadcast details and kick times for games on FOX Sports networks and MW+. The conference will also focus on promoting its new subscription service, MW+, to maximize viewership and engagement. Schools within the conference will likely leverage the increased exposure to enhance their athletic programs and attract top talent. The success of the broadcast package could influence future media rights negotiations and partnerships, potentially leading to more lucrative deals and expanded coverage.
