Official Site of the Southeastern Conference

OUTBACK BOWL EXTENDS CONTRACT WITH SEC THROUGH 2014 GAME

Tampa, FL -- Outback Bowl officials have completed the final piece of its major contract renewals with its conference and network partners with today’s announcement of an agreement to extend its contracts with the Southeastern Conference for four additional years through the January 2014 Bowl game. Officials have previously announced four year extensions with title sponsor Outback Steakhouse the Big Ten Conference, and ESPN thus today’s announcement completes efforts to continue its relationships with all four major entities.

As part of the new agreements, the Outback Bowl will kick-off at 1:00 P.M. ET New Year’s Day in Tampa and televised on ABC TV while matching the third pick of teams from the SEC and Big Ten Conference.

"The Southeastern Conference is pleased to continue its relationship with the Outback Bowl," stated SEC Commissioner Mike Slive.  "Jim McVay and his staff have been great hosts to our schools and fans for the past 15 years.  The Outback Bowl gives our institutions an opportunity to play in an outstanding stadium and enjoy a world-class tourist destination."

"We are extremely happy to announce the extension of our relationship with the Southeastern Conference for four additional years," noted Outback Bowl President/CEO Jim McVay.  "The SEC and Big Ten are a perfect fit for the Outback Bowl.  We love the teams, bands, fans and the tradition and history of these conferences.  With agreements in place with these two outstanding leagues, Outback Steakhouse and our network partner the Outback Bowl is in a tremendous position for the next four years."    

The Outback Bowl has hosted an SEC vs Big Ten match-up in its game the past fifteen years, and seventeen years in all, during its 24 year history.  The SEC holds a 10-7 advantage in those games, though the series is tied at 4-4 the past eight years.

The Outback Bowl will celebrate its 25th anniversary this coming January.  For information on ordering priority membership seats for the 2011 Outback Bowl call (813) 874-BOWL or go to the "Ticket Packages" link on the bowl web site at www.outbackbowl.com for details.