In the final affirmation that online streaming has changed TV forever -- a process that arguably started when ABC made hits available on iTunes in late 2005 -- the Super Bowl will be available live and free on two Web sites in February. NBC’s coverage of the big game will be simulcast on NBCSports.com and NFL.com and the ads will be different.
NBC would not provide any information -- about number of spots, etc. -- for the stream, except to say the spots will be different. This carries some risk for advertisers paying $3 million for 30 seconds on TV if there is significant consumption online, although that’s unlikely. NBC and the NFL surely are banking on online viewing to be additive.
NBC, which has been simulcasting “Sunday Night Football” for several years online, will also stream two Wild Card playoff games and the Pro Bowl.
The games will also be available on the NFL’s mobile service to some Verizon customers. This marks the first time that post-season games will be available in the U.S. via live online streaming and a mobile app.
Like the Sunday night games, the online coverage offers added camera angles. In-game highlights will also be available along with other interactive opportunities.advertisement
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