
On this episode of Conduct Detrimental: THE Sports Law Podcast, Dan Lust (@SportsLawLust) is joined by Tarun Sharma (@tksharmalaw) to tackle some of the biggest stories in college sports, professional, and broadcasting.
The duo kicks off with the Big Ten's proposed $2.4 billion private equity deal with UC Investments. They break down how the deal would work, why Michigan and USC's boards are unanimously opposed, and whether locking in media rights through 2046 is dangerously short-sighted given how dramatically college sports has evolved over the past decade.
Next, they dive into the Tyler Skaggs wrongful death trial that just began in California. The Angels face $118 million in damages as the family argues negligent retention after communications director Eric Kay—who was convicted of supplying the drugs that killed Skaggs—was kept on staff despite red flags. Could this set precedent for team liability across all professional sports?
The guys then unpack Mark Sanchez's wild situation from the past couple of weeks: from Fox Sports analyst to felony assault charges after a 3 a.m. alley altercation in Indianapolis. They discuss the bizarre details, the destroyed broadcasting career, and whether there's any path back for the former quarterback.
Dan and Tarun also react to James Franklin's $49 million Penn State buyout after the team collapsed from 3-0 to 3-3, debate whether Matt Rule is really a viable replacement, and discuss the mitigation clause that could reduce the payout. Plus, they touch on Bill Belichick's brutal start at UNC and whether his contract protections will even matter if the losses continue.
Finally, they explore the Utah Mammoth trademark battle with Mammoth Hockey Bags, comparing it to the Cleveland Guardians roller derby saga and discussing the SEO argument happening in real time.
What to Watch For: Dan highly recommends Amazon Prime's "Evolution of the Black Quarterback" documentary featuring Michael Vick, and shares fascinating stories about Doug Williams, Warren Moon, Randall Cunningham, and how the position slowly integrated. Tarun suggests Netflix's "Katrina: Hell and High Water" for those interested and who may know about Katrina, but not the aftermath.
Let us know your thoughts!
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As always, this episode is sponsored by Themis Bar Review: https://www.themisbarsocial.com/conductdetrimental
Host: Dan Lust (@SportsLawLust)
Featuring: Tarun Sharma (@tksharmalaw)
Produced by: Mike Kravchenko (Watch on YouTube)
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