Verizon Fios FOX Blackout: Why Patriots Fans Missed the Game
Since FOX holds the broadcast rights for the Patriots, the timing couldn't be worse for New England fans.
A contract standoff between Verizon Fios and Cox Media Group forced Patriots fans to miss Sunday’s game against the Jets. The blackout sent viewers searching for different—and sometimes pricey—ways to watch the action. Now, customers are left wondering if the two sides will settle the feud before next Sunday’s kickoff.
The trouble started Dec. 15 when the deal between the companies expired. The fallout hit Fios subscribers in Boston, Providence, and Pittsburgh particularly hard. In the Boston and Providence markets, viewers lost WFXT (FOX 25), along with the Charge! and Laff channels. Pittsburgh customers lost WPXI, which carries NBC, MeTV, and PCNC.
The two corporations have spent the last two weeks trading blame. Verizon claims Cox is demanding unfair fee hikes that would spike monthly bills. Cox, meanwhile, accuses Verizon of refusing to extend negotiations and dropping Boston 25 despite multiple offers.
Todd Brown, vice president and general manager at Boston 25, issued a statement accusing Verizon of holding viewers hostage and harming local journalism. As of Monday, neither side has provided a fresh update on the situation.
In the meantime, fans are getting creative to avoid missing another snap. Many turned to short-term solutions on Sunday, signing up for free trials on YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV. Others checked out options like Amazon Prime, Paramount+, and Peacock. Some fans went old-school by buying digital antennas to grab local signals for free.
One trick gaining traction online is the LocalTV+ app. It allows users to stream local Boston stations on a phone or tablet, which can then be beamed straight to a TV screen via AirPlay.
Source: Boston.com