In a class action lawsuit over the pricing of the NFL Sunday Ticket package, new evidence suggests that the NFL intentionally manipulated prices to protect CBS and Fox in-market packages. Former CBS Sports chairman, Sean McManus, denied any knowledge of the NFL's control over Sunday Ticket pricing or a side deal between CBS and the NFL to keep prices high. However, other evidence contradicts these claims, including an email from McManus in 2011 seeking clarification on pricing and expressing a desire to limit distribution.

The official response from the NFL is that there was no specific promise regarding Sunday Ticket pricing to ensure limited distribution. However, this raises suspicions of a potential side deal or a gentlemen's agreement to keep prices high and suppress Sunday Ticket subscribers, thereby boosting the value of CBS and Fox packages.

The case has been complicated by the NFL's tight-lipped approach, forcing plaintiffs' lawyers to constantly chase the truth. The judge has criticized the lawyers for overcomplicating the case, emphasizing the core questions surrounding Sunday Ticket's high prices and the absence of a single-team option for displaced fans.

One of the central questions in the case is why the NFL has never explored more flexible options for fans, such as accepting ESPN's offer to make the full package available for a lower price or creating a one-team-at-a-time option. The plaintiffs argue that the NFL's intention is to maximize viewership for the free broadcasts on local affiliates, pointing to an express or implied agreement between the NFL, CBS, Fox, and DirecTV to rig prices and enhance ratings.

The NFL's lawyer, Beth Wilkinson, claimed that the case is about choice and wanting as many people as possible to watch the free broadcasts. However, the costly nature of Sunday Ticket contradicts this statement, leading to the belief that the NFL's primary goal is to boost CBS and Fox ratings.

As the presiding judge considers whether to dismiss the class action, the complexities of the case and the defense's attempts to obfuscate the truth have frustrated both the judge and the plaintiffs' lawyers. The NFL's alleged institutional lying, if proven, raises questions about the ethics of the league's practices.

The outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for the NFL, shedding light on potential price rigging and collusion between the league, broadcasters, and streaming platforms. The judge's decision will determine whether this case progresses and forces the NFL to address these allegations or if the NFL's defense prevails in avoiding accountability.