This will reshape expansion and realignment in a major way. ESPN and the ACC have agreed to a significant contract extension that will keep their media rights deal in place through 2036. This is a major development for the ACC and college sports in general. Here's a breakdown of what we know: The Deal: ESPN has exercised its option to extend its existing contract with the ACC, ensuring their partnership continues through 2036. This aligns the end date with the ACC's separate ACC Network deal with ESPN. Significance: This extension provides stability for the ACC, particularly in the face of recent conference realignment and legal challenges from some member schools. It solidifies the conference's financial future and reduces the likelihood of further departures. Financial Implications: While the exact financial terms haven't been disclosed, it's safe to say this extension will provide the ACC with substantial revenue for the next decade. This money will be crucial for the conference to remain competitive with the SEC and Big Ten, which have significantly richer media rights deals. Impact on FSU and Clemson: This extension could pave the way for a potential resolution to the legal disputes between the ACC and Florida State and Clemson. These schools have been exploring ways to challenge the ACC's grant of rights, which also runs through 2036. With the ESPN deal secured, the ACC may be in a stronger position to negotiate with these schools and keep them in the conference. Future of the ACC: This extension signals a commitment from ESPN to the ACC and suggests that the conference is likely to remain intact for the foreseeable future. It provides a foundation for the ACC to continue to grow and compete in the ever-evolving landscape of college athletics. This is a developing story, and more details about the financial terms and specific implications of the deal are likely to emerge in the coming days and weeks. However, it's clear that this extension is a significant win for the ACC and a crucial step in solidifying its place among the top conferences in college sports. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Turbo Tax Ready for stress-free taxes and the most money back, guaranteed? Head over to TurboTax.com today and get matched with your Expert. Only available with TurboTax Live Full Service. Real-time updates only in the iOS mobile app. See guarantee details at TurboTax.com/guarantees. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Super Bowl 59 is here, And there’s no better way to make every play more exciting than with FanDuel Sportsbook. New customers can bet just FIVE DOLLARS, and if you win, you’ll score TWO HUNDRED BUCKS in Bonus Bets. Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of Super Bowl Fifty-Nine. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOBig12?sid=YouTube Locked On College Conferences, HBCU, Basketball & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnCollege Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/drakectoll Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LOBig12