trying not to read some of this as i have 2 more episodes to watch...
But it's a blatant bullshit money grab on AMC's part to get two seasons out of the cost of one. AMC is in financial trouble and I can almost guarantee this move is all a part of that. It's the same trouble that caused them to attempt massive rate increases with all new broadcast contracts this year and get dropped by Dish and a few other carriers. Now, due to their greed, they are in even greater financial trouble since they have to adjust their ad prices due to having at least 25% less viewership in the states. (Not to mention revenue and ratings losses from those AMC dropped customers that now turn to bitorrent instead of their DVR's to grab their "split season.")
The show is one of the best shows of all time, but AMC business practices can suck it.