The Fan, The Ticket, ESPN Radio

Here in the Dallas - Fort Worth market, we have no less than four sports stations. The Ticket, which has been doing sports for over 15 years (KTCK, 1310 AM, and its sub stations), ESPN 103.3, Fox Sports 1460, and new to the market, 105.3 The Fan (what was Live 105.3).

How successful will the newest entry be? It's hard to say. The Fan's main programming hosts have all been part-timers, or other contributors at The Ticket. Now, this is not to say they aren't talented. Ben and Skin are doing afternoons, and their contributions on the Ticket, especially for Mavericks coverage are second to none... however, maintaining a daily show for 48 or so weeks a year is very tough.

The other factor is localism. The Fan will be only the second station to really try the local approach. The question will be how much will CBS spend to make this successful? Will they send their entire crew to the Super Bowl in Tampa? Will they be at Rangers Spring Training, or Cowboy Training Camp? Will they have a crew go with the Stars on a road trip. Frankly, I don't think CBS will invest the money. I think the only reason Cumulus still does is because Susquehanna showed how successful spending a little money could be at the Ticket.

Time will tell, and I wish The Fan good luck.