[AnotherUnixGeek]

That’s not the NFL preventing a merger, that’s AT&T explaining exactly which part of DirecTV they consider useful.

True enough, but preventing a merger which would further reduce competition in the media content and Internet connectivity markets is a useful side-effect.

[discostu]

From the NFL’s side it’s just a matter of whether or not DirecTV ponies up enough cash. Last renewal time buzz said the NFL wanted to make Sunday Ticket not exclusive but DirecTV made them an offer they couldn’t refuse. I doubt the NFL cares one way or another how this will effect some merger, although now they do know DirecTV has a major reason to keep the status quo so expect the price to go up a lot.