• by David Goetzl , August 15, 2008

CBS said it has extended its deal to carry Southeastern Conference football games for an additional 15 years. The new agreement, beginning in the fall of 2009, also includes basketball.

CBS is the only broadcast network to carry SEC home games. ESPN and a regional broadcaster also have rights.

The deal allows CBS to continue to carry the SEC Championship Game each December. The bulk of the SEC football games that CBS carries take place on Saturday afternoons, although the agreement includes a prime-time game and some doubleheaders.

"This landmark deal allows "The SEC on CBS" to continue to be a cornerstone of our fall programming for many years to come," said Sean McManus, who heads CBS Sports.

CBS has had a relationship with the SEC for 13 years. The deal includes various multimedia rights, including simulcast on the CBS College Sports Network.