As the highly anticipated NFL season kicks off on Thursday, another contest is unfolding in the television industry that is affecting a staggering 11 million viewers. DirecTV and Disney are currently in the midst of negotiating a new contract that would allow DirecTV's satellite and streaming services, as well as AT&T's U-Verse TV, to continue broadcasting popular networks such as ESPN, the Disney Channel, FX, and other Disney-owned channels.

Unfortunately, the negotiations did not conclude in time, and on Sunday, September 1, all of these channels went dark for DirecTV subscribers as the previous five-year contract expired. As a result, viewers are currently unable to access ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, ESPNU, ESPN News, ACC Network, SEC Network, Disney Junior, National Geographic, and even eight Disney-owned ABC stations, including those in major cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco.

While talks between DirecTV and Disney are ongoing, if a resolution is not reached soon, sports fans are in danger of missing out on a multitude of broadcasted events in the upcoming days. In an attempt to appease frustrated subscribers, DirecTV is offering a $20 credit to those affected by the blackout on Disney/ESPN channels.

For viewers eager to catch upcoming college football games and NFL matchups on ESPN and its networks, there are a few alternative options available. Subscribing to a live streaming TV service such as Fubo or YouTube TV is one of the easiest routes to take, though it may come at an additional cost. However, it is important to note that digital cable services are not immune to carriage disputes either, with the flexibility to cancel channels or services when the sport season ends.

Both DirecTV and Disney have confirmed that negotiations are actively taking place. However, public attacks exchanged between the two entities suggest a prolonged standoff is likely. DirecTV's Chief Financial Officer, Ray Carpenter, expressed disappointment in Disney's decision to blackout channels, stating that his company had requested the USC-LSU football game be made available to viewers. Meanwhile, Disney and ESPN executives have accused DirecTV of misrepresenting the facts surrounding the negotiations and making demands that would waive any future legal claims against Disney.

As the ongoing dispute between DirecTV and Disney captures public attention, it remains uncertain when a resolution will be reached. In the meantime, concerned viewers can stay updated on the latest news and developments by signing up for our trending newsletter.

(Note: This article is based on the information provided by the user and may not reflect the most current updates on the situation between DirecTV and Disney. Readers are encouraged to seek additional sources for the latest news.