The deal between DirecTV and Disney reportedly fell through and as such, all Disney-owned channels were shut off for DirecTV subscribers. If you were one of those affected by this while wondering how to watch the USC vs. LSU game, we’ve got options.
DirecTV, Disney Don’t Deal, Here’s How to Watch USC vs. LSU
- Game Date: Sunday, September 1, 2024
- Game Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
- Stadium: Allegiant Stadium
- TV Channel: ABC
Given the recent fallout between Disney and DirecTV, ESPN and its associated networks (including ABC) might not be available to DirecTV subscribers. This means if you’re relying on DirecTV for your sports content, you could miss out on the game unless an alternative is found.
The fallout between DirecTV and Disney stems from a failure to renew their carriage agreement, which allows DirecTV to broadcast Disney-owned channels, including ESPN and ABC. These agreements typically involve negotiations over fees that DirecTV pays Disney to carry its channels.
However, the two companies were unable to reach an agreement on terms, leading to a blackout of Disney channels for DirecTV subscribers.
This dispute is part of a broader trend in the TV industry. Content providers like Disney seek higher fees to offset declining cable subscriptions, while distributors like DirecTV resist these increases to avoid raising prices for customers.
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As a result, DirecTV subscribers lost access to popular channels at a crucial time for sports fans, especially with many more major college football games like USC vs. LSU on the horizon.
This disruption has forced many customers to seek alternative viewing options or switch to other providers that still carry Disney’s networks.
Disney Offers Official Statement Regarding DirecTV Deal
The following statement came from Dana Walden and Alan Bergman, Co-Chairmen of Disney Entertainment as well as Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman, ESPN:
“DirecTV chose to deny millions of subscribers access to our content just as we head into the final week of the US Open and gear up for college football and the opening of the NFL season,” the statement read. “While we’re open to offering DirecTV flexibility and terms which we’ve extended to other distributors, we will not enter into an agreement that undervalues our portfolio of television channels and programs.”
“We invest significantly to deliver the No. 1 brands in entertainment, news and sports because that’s what our viewers expect and deserve. We urge DirecTV to do what’s in the best interest of their customers and finalize a deal that would immediately restore our programming.”
Alternative Viewing Options for USC vs. LSU
If you’re a DirecTV subscriber, consider these alternatives:
Streaming Services: Subscribe to a service like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or Sling TV, which all carry ESPN and ABC channels. These services often offer free trials, allowing you to watch the game without committing to a long-term subscription.
ESPN App: You can also watch the game through the ESPN app by logging in with credentials from another streaming service or cable provider that carries ESPN.
The game can also be streamed on ESPN+ or Watch ESPN, and local radio broadcasts will be heard in the areas around College Station and South Bend.
To watch on a phone, laptop, or tablet:
- Access the ESPN app (Available in the Apple and Google Play stores)
- Tap “Watch”
- Find the Notre Dame-Texas A&M icon
- Tap the broadcast you’d like to watch
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