CN8 to Stop Broadcasting in New England
November 14, 2008 by Joe
CN8, the local inhouse channel of the Comcast network, will no longer be broadcasting in New England, effective in January. With college hockey becoming more and more visible, with Hockey East extending its contract with NESN, and the addition of CCHA games on the NHL Network, as well as ESPNU coverage, this is a little step in the wrong direction. This affects several Boston University Broadcasts, including:
Jan. 3 at Denver Cup
Jan. 17 vs. Boston College
Jan. 24 at New Hampshire
Feb. 21 at Northeastern
Feb. 28 vs. Massachusetts
Several other teams will also be affected, notably New Hampshire, which was not picked up by NHPTV this year due to rising costs, and Vermont, which will have two games affected. New Hampshire was already searching for a more permanent solution.
While this is a blow to College Hockey, I’m not too disappointed. The broadcast never looked sharp, it was always a little blurry. What college hockey needs is a bigger network, with potential HD capabilities to draw interest to the game. HD is becoming more important… and I think that Bruins Games look awesome in HD.
Comcast SportsNet will attempt to pick up the games that are affected, but has an obligation to the Boston Celtics first.
Source: College Hockey News
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From what I’ve heard, it sounds like Comcast Sports Net is going to be able to absorb both contracts in their entirety - there may be the rare occasion of tape delay, but we’ll be able to see the games. Comcast Sports Net has been hurting for more coverage (besides the Celtics, they have very little), and so this will work out well for them. They’ll make an announcement soon, I believe.
Pluses - the picture will be clearer and students on campus will actually be able to see the games.
Minuses - Possible tape delay, Will they still have the hockey professor?
By the way, I’m eager to see what you do with the blog - great job so far!
Thanks Kat… there are definitely still some asthetic things to take care of here.. but I’ll get it all up soon. Hurting from the loss tonight!
I guess that’s what comes from having a target on your back.
I’m really hoping that they don’t go to tape delay. I can’t stand that.