'NFL Sunday Ticket' Package Scores National Reach

DirecTV's Manhattan project was successful enough that the satellite operator will go ahead with plans sure to satisfy many a rabid NFL fan -- even cable subscribers.

Last season, DirecTV offered online access to "NFL Sunday Ticket" for people who are unable to become DirecTV subscribers. But the product was only available from the bottom of the Bronx to the Battery. This fall, it goes nationwide.

People are eligible for the broadband-only offering if DirecTV can't flow into their homes due to blockage of signals. Manhattan was prime testing ground, since so many apartment dwellers fit that profile.

"Whether you're a Cowboy fan living in Hell's Kitchen, a relocated Cheesehead in Chelsea or a transplanted Tennessean in Tribeca, 'NFL Sunday Ticket Online' lets you follow your favorite team no matter where you live in the city," read promotional material a year ago.

A DirecTV representative said the company would not release how many Manhattan-ites took advantage of the opportunity.

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The offering also allowed live access to the multiple out-of-market games each week on mobile devices. The product did cost about $50 more than the regular "Sunday Ticket" package for DirecTV's subscribers.

DirecTV received rights to sell the broadband-only product when it continued its deal with the NFL last year. It has offered "Sunday Ticket" since 1994.

Last summer, DirecTV said it planned to offer "NFL Sunday Ticket Online" coast to coast in 2010.

DirecTV and the NFL also devised an authentication system to ensure that subscribers to the broadband package can't become DirecTV customers at home.

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