Big Ten announces 6-year partnership with ESPN and Fox Sports worth $2.64B – Chicago Tribune

The Big Ten formally announced its new six-year partnership with ESPN and Fox Sports, a deal worth a reported $2.64 billion that industry analysts view as a victory for the league.

News of the agreement got out more than a year ago, but commissioner Jim Delany delayed the unveiling until Monday.

“We have labored in bringing our agreements to maturity,” he said. “The (game) selection, I wouldn’t say, is tricky. But it is sensitive. Any change requires you to go back.”

Fox Sports gets the first pick each year and — no surprise — the network has selected the Ohio StateMichigan game in 2017 (Fox also gets the annual conference championship game).