The networks weren't so much a decision more so than something they were forced into based on time frames they wanted to air the games. CBS and other three letter acronym channels weren't going to give them prime time hours with no proven product. They may have let them air games at 10AM or other off hours, but to get the time slots they wanted in year 1 I'm sure they had to make a decision to go with lesser networks Although I'd argue the NFL Network is included in a lot of people's package, especially those interested in football.