Interesting story from Adam Schupak of Golfweek about the USGA’s new deal with Fox Sports.

Apparently, the USGA is serious about wanting a fresh look for the U.S. Open. Oh, the $100 million or so per year influenced the decision too.

Schupak writes:

The framework of a deal took shape that day until the two sides adjourned for dinner around “6-7ish.” From inside Proskauer Rose’s Times Square headquarters, the USGA brain trust of Hirshland, Henry Smokler, the USGA’s managing director of broadcast and digital media, consultants from Wasserman Media Group, and Proskauer Rose lawyers burned the office lights deep into the night. They discussed Fox’s lack of experience covering golf and concluded that it shouldn’t be considered a stumbling block.

“They have a very proven track record being able to launch in new sports and do it in a very strong and powerful way,” Hirshland said. “They did it in football, they did it in baseball so we have a very high comfort level that they will be able to produce world-class production.”

And then there was this:

Hirshland said the association would collaborate with Fox in selecting the broadcasters to cover its events.

“In fact, Fox invited that. We didn’t have to force that,” Hirshland said. “Quite frankly, I hope they push us a little bit. That’s one of the goals for us. We want to welcome the fresh perspective.”

Does that mean NBC’s Tommy Roy is so yesterday? Go ahead be ticked off, Tommy.

And finally:

Those with long memories may recall that the USGA’s fortunes improved when it abandoned longtime partner ABC and signed a lucrative deal to broadcast USGA championships on NBC Sports in 1994.

“That (deal) was profound and proved to be terrific for the organization,” Hirshland said.

Time will tell if history repeats itself.

Yes, indeed. This is a big dice roll here.

Golf is a game that likes it traditions. There’s going to be a fine line between innovative and “are-you-kidding-me?” with any changes.

Almost can’t wait until 2015 U.S. Open to see what Fox does.