TORONTO – TSN will air National Football League games – in high definition – on Sunday and Monday nights beginning next season.
First, TSN president Phil King announced the acquisition of Monday Night Football, which is switching from its traditional broadcast slot on ABC next season to ABC’s corporate cousin, ESPN.. TSN has picked up the exclusive Canadian rights to the program beginning in September 2006, airing a total of 17 Monday night games annually.
Second, TSN also confirmed today it has reached a three-year deal with the NFL to extend its Sunday Night NFL broadcast package through the 2008 season. Coverage includes 17 games each season, 16 of which are on Sunday, plus opening night of the season (Thursday).
NBC has purchased the Sunday night rights in the States.
“This announcement means that TSN will offer Canadians a one-two punch on Sundays and Mondays, with a total of 34 NFL games each season, all in prime time, all in High Definition, making TSN the prime time home of the NFL in Canada,” says the press release.
UPDATE: While the release gave no indication what will happen to World Wrestling Entertainment’s Monday Night RAW, which has been popular counter-programming for TSN to Monday Night Football, TSN has decided to air the pro wrestling after football on Monday, repeating it Tuesday afternoon (just like it does now) and Tuesday evening.
“Today’s announcement underscores TSN’s commitment to being the leader in Canada’s sports industry,” added King. “Sunday and Monday Night Football are established appointment television programs that immediately enhance TSN’s prime time schedule.”
TSN’s 2006 NFL campaign kicks off with the first game of the season on Thursday, Sept. 7.
