NFL makes goal line stand in epic blackout battle with Senate

NFL blackout games could be a thing of the past if the U.S. Senate gets its way, but the league is holding on tight to its current policy, pitting the two against each other in what could be an all out battle for viewers' rights.

The Kansas City Business Journal reports the Senate Judiciary Committee held hearings last week to encourage NFL to eliminate its practice of not broadcasting local teams on local TV if games don't sell out 72 hours in advance. The committee threatened congressional action if the NFL doesn't back down from its blackout practices.

The Federal Communications Commission eliminated its sports blackout rule Sept. 30, but the NFL won’t let go.

"There is something wrong with a situation in which the NFL can say to all those fans who have made the league what it is today, 'You had better purchase tickets, or else,’” said Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., in a statement he entered into testimony.

Insiders believe the issue could make it to the Supreme Court.

Read more from the Kansas City Business Journal.