A watershed moment in Major League Soccer’s 18-year history will occur this week, as the league is poised to announce new media rights deals that will bring in far more revenue and lead to a consistent, streamlined television schedule.

Thomas Bach’s aggressive push to secure the International Olympic Committee’s financial security reflects a bigger belief in the value of long-term partnerships. It is that belief that made the massive 12-year, $7.65 million media rights extension with NBC through 2032 a reality.

Philadelphia fans are haters. Cleveland and Detroit fans are depressed. Don't get him started on San Francisco fans. And Boston fans: They’re smart. These are few of the pointed conclusions Frank Luntz has drawn from his focus groups studying passion and sports.

Though action sports remain a vibrant marketing platform for hundreds of brands, properties have found sponsorship sales tough. That's reflected in the 40 percent drop in the total number of sponsors between the X Games, Dew Tour and Association of Surfing Professionals since the recession.