35 percent drop in ratings and they're still going to have the semi games on new years eve, if I read this right. http://sports.yahoo.com/news/colleg...-semis-earlier-kickoffs-173035593--ncaaf.html
It's not a company holiday at most offices. You can't ask for additional "holiday" time off less than a month in advance (when playoff berths are finalized) at most offices. Leaving early to catch the football game is not a valid excuse at most offices. Continue being out of touch, ESPN.
I saw one article that said that the ratings on the final game was down too, so the scheduling of the semis did not totally explain the ratings. Personally, I don't care - if OU is playing, I'll figure out a way to watch.
I don't like the semifinals being on new year's eve but what I really can't stand is the arrogance. They have actually said that they know it's not popular but they are starting a new tradition and everyone just needs to get on board.