FSU, Clemson, and ACC Legal Battle Nearing Resolution
ESPN Extends ACC Broadcast Deal, Adding Stability
On Thursday, ESPN reported that it has exercised its option to continue broadcasting ACC sports through 2036. This decision could bring much-needed stability to a conference that once seemed on the verge of falling apart.
Originally signed in 2016, the 20-year media rights deal led to the creation of the ACC Network. ESPN had until Saturday to extend the agreement, and its decision could play a key role in shaping the conference’s future.
New Revenue Model Could End Lawsuits
Negotiations over the TV deal reportedly included discussions about a new revenue distribution model. Under this plan, a portion of the ACC’s TV revenue would be set aside in a “brand fund” to reward schools that generate the most revenue in football, men’s basketball, and women’s basketball.
Likely beneficiaries of this model include Clemson, Florida State, Miami, and North Carolina. If finalized, the agreement could lead to Clemson and FSU dropping their ongoing lawsuits against the ACC.
Legal Dispute Over TV Rights
The legal battle, which began in December 2023, revolves around one key issue: who controls the broadcast rights to FSU and Clemson’s home games if they leave the ACC.
- FSU and Clemson’s Argument: They believe they should retain their media rights and the revenue attached to them, making them attractive targets for conferences like the SEC or Big Ten.
- ACC’s Argument: The conference claims those media rights—and the revenue—would remain with the ACC until the TV contract expires, even if the schools move elsewhere.
Financial Struggles Compared to SEC & Big Ten
One of the biggest frustrations for FSU and Clemson is the ACC’s TV contract, which reportedly generates about half the revenue that the Big Ten’s deal with Fox does. This financial gap puts ACC schools at a competitive disadvantage compared to rivals in the SEC and Big Ten.
Notre Dame’s Role in Conference Stability
To boost revenue, the ACC could look to its relationship with Notre Dame. While the Fighting Irish remain independent in football, they play five to six ACC games per season and are full members in all other sports.
Notre Dame’s athletic director, Pete Bevacqua, recently stated that they are having “interesting conversations” with the ACC about future football scheduling. He even expressed interest in making Clemson a yearly opponent.
FSU is already scheduled to face Notre Dame four times between 2026 and 2032.
What’s Next?
With ESPN committing to the ACC long-term and a new revenue model potentially in place, Clemson and Florida State could be inching toward a resolution. Whether this keeps them in the ACC remains to be seen, but it could at least put an end to the lawsuits.
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