TV Time Outs For Soccer?

But then how can the NBA stretch its playoff games out to 3 and a half hours without six 5-minute breaks in the suspenseful last 45 seconds of playing time?

 

Let's not forget the numerous logos on player's jerseys in virtually every soccer institution except the world cup. Pretty good revenue source there. The Herbalife logo on every Beckham Galaxy jersey sold was a massive advertising coup for Herbalife, given their investment.

 

Not to mention the corporate titles in the franchises themselves: Bayer Leverkusen, Chivas, and the good old New York Red Bulls amongst others.

 

But how would that create revenue for the TV Networks?

 

Absolutely soccer needs to have more commercials.

I think that would not only help the TV networks - who clearly are very unhappy with the minimal financial returns soccer broadcasts bring - but also the fans. Fans love commercials during games. Soccer would really take off in the U.S. if there were commercials.

And this change had better happen within the next four years, so it's in place the next time sports fans want to "give soccer a chance!"

 

Why can't networks just "pause the TiVo" and slip in a 60-second spot while, say, a set piece is being set up or there's an injury stoppage?

There's already a certain mount of delay in the broadcast from satellite signals, etc. So it's already not truly "live."

But if the audience is there, there'll be a network broadcasting games, and there will be plenty of spots available to sell pre- and post-game and at halftime.