Versus is a Comcast-owned sports channel that sprouted from the Outdoor Life Network in 2006. In recent months, the network has been in a contract dispute with DirecTV, one of the country’s primary cable providers. While DirecTV will likely completely rid themselves of Versus, that isn’t stopping the network from unveiling some original programming
Cabler has greenlit “Sports Jobs with Junior Seau,” with the NFL all-pro linebacker taking on less glamorous tasks in the sports world.
Series, similar to Discovery’s “Dirty Jobs” with host Mike Rowe but not as grimy, will have Seau act as a cornerman in a UFC fight, be a batboy at a Dodgers game and serve as a member of a pit crew in an Indy Car race, among other activities.
Versus, which hasn’t made a decision on whether to renew “Fanarchy” after the show finished its first season last week, will begin broadcasting the NHL on Oct. 1. Net was pulled off DirecTV on Sept. 1 and the two have been in a contentious disagreement over rights fees and whether the satcaster can put Versus on a pay-only digital tier.
Really, Versus? This is the best you can do? There is no doubt Junior Seau has some star power, but it’s primarily focused in San Diego, where he spent 12 years of his football career. Also, let’s not forget that Versus doesn’t broadcast any pro or college football games. They have a contract with the NHL and have a strong selection of regular season and postseason coverage. This is where the network shines. Yet, most football fans (i.e. those interested in Junior Seau) have never heard of the Versus network. And why should they?
While it’s not a bad idea for Versus to reach into the reality spectrum, they need to choose their programming wisely. They’re already on thin ice as it is — pun intended.
