NFL Network: Satellite vs Cable

As the Patriots inch closer to perfection, the battle between cable TV and satellite will intensify this week. But should you really blame NFL and the NFL Network for giving you the opportunity to see the game?

The last time I checked, this is a free market economy. As a customer, you are free to choose cable or satellite. Yet, the media and fans want to blame the NFL and the NFL Network for not giving them a chance to watch the game. Of course cable blames the NFL Network (and the Big Ten Network) for wanting too much money for the station to be included on their basic package. Besides, they don't want to "subject" all their customers to paying a higher cost for the basic package. But, it is OK to include (take your pick) other stations that many have little to no interest in watching, but that is another story.

What is interesting is that the satellite companies can offer competitive package prices that includes the NFL Network and Big Ten Network and cable companies like Time Warner can't. It is hard to understand why more people haven't made the switch. Perhaps they are fearful that their TV will go out on them every time it rains or snows. Cable companies can only hope that their customers hold on to these false beliefs.

For sports fans, satellite TV, like DIRECTV is far and away a better choice than cable. Offering the NFL Network is only part of the overall sports menu. As the NFL Network continues to grow, you can expect more live games to be offered. You can also bet that the TV providers that do offer the NFL Network will continue to hammer the airwaves to get people to make the switch. If the cable companies continue to be arrogant and not give customers want they want, cable prices will continue to increase in order for them to absorb their lost in market share.

Regardless of what side of the argument you are on. The fact is this. You have a choice. You do not have to whine and blame the NFL and the NFL Network for being greedy. They are running a business. If it is something you want, it IS available to you. You just need to change your provider.