When the SEC launches its network on August 14th, over 80 million TV homes will have access to the channel. The final piece of the distribution puzzle fell into place today when DirecTV, the nation's largest satellite provider, signed on the dotted line.

The deal solidifies a successful launching of the SEC Network, and could be a blessing for the Longhorn Network as well. I can't find any conformation as of now, but there were reports that Disney was offering the LHN as "added value" in the negotiations with DirecTV and that it would also be added to the satellite provider's sports package.