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I also have tried EVERY browser that will work in Linux to try to run FoxSports, ESPN, cable TV, etc. Some will partially load the graphics, but none will actually play events. My cable company provides TV viewing for subscribers through browsers, but the feature does not work with Linux/Mint.
I don't particularly understand the problem.
I'm running Linux Mint 17.2 MATE.
Follows are screenshots from Chrome Browser (taken just now):
Fox News (Verizon Fios):
Netflix:
Hulu:
Amazon Video:
As to Flash, browsers are transitioning to HTML5. Admittedly, if you want to watch DRM content, you have to use Chrome versus Chromium.
But if you really need Flash content, you need to install the Flash installer plugin (via Synaptic Package Manager) and then use Firefox.
I agree that Wine leaves a lot to be desired; however, I've had success installing both Office 2007 and 2010 with Wine in the past.
(In all candor, I have a Windows 7 VM that I run via Oracle VirtualBox when I have to run Windows software).
I used to have a dual boot system, but when I built my current computer, I didn't bother. I run a VM when I really need to use Windows (which isn't often).