There has been a season or two where BTN was in this position in late August with big providers like Comcast. I think they wait this late to use the urgency as a bargaining chip. If "they" means the provider, that never works; but if it's the channel, maybe it usually works. In the past I believe Comcast has always lost in BTN negotiations. And this time I'm sure DirectTV will fold. So I'm betting you guys will have your channels in time. DirectTV is in a corner and is highly unlikely so foolish as to mess this up. Just like Comcast before them, the risk of subscriber exodus is very real and easily sparked by something we treat religiously (CFB) being inaccessible.
I'd say just kick back and have faith.