Current Issues with Dr. Phillips

Nov. 28, 2006

While we have attempted to explain the ACC television contract and the impact on game times, I’d like to once again provide some information. This is one of those situations that if we play at noon, there are those who don’t like that time, and if we play at 7:45 p.m., the same scenario. All the people who contact our office have very legitimate concerns and misgivings, which we respect.

Sometimes I get responses that tell me that we simply must say no and not allow television to dictate game times. There have been times that we have been granted some relief when other alternatives were available. However, the ultimate call is by the networks and the ACC syndicator carrier – under the provisions of the Conference contract that govern all schools. And, obviously, the rankings of the opponents are a key factor in what time slot to put the game. Given this, it is our duty to act in accordance with the provisions of the ACC television contract.

This year just ending, I will say that it certainly wasn’t desirable to have three noon games back to back. We will address this in the off-season. The conference is sensitive to these kinds of issues for all members and work to help if they can. They do try their best when issues such as this arise; but, there must be viable alternatives in order to help and the networks must be agreeable.

And finally, FYI, the following are the number of times each of the conference schools have played in the different time slots, home and away, during the 2006 season.

All ACC Schools’ Football Game Times in 2006

1:00-

2:15-

4:00-

Team

Noon

2:00 PM

3:30 PM

6:30 PM

7:00 PM >

Boston College

Clemson