Posted on Sep 11
u/alex •
Opening week games set viewership records, drawing an average of 21 million viewers per game
Record-breaking viewership numbers highlight the NFL's opening week games.
Why it matters: The increased viewership signifies a strong start to the NFL season and reflects the enduring popularity of the sport.
- The average viewership per game reached 21.0 million, a significant 12% increase compared to last year.
- NBC's broadcast of the Chiefs' victory over the Ravens attracted the most viewers, with an average of 29.2 million on TV and digital platforms.
- Tom Brady's debut as Fox's top analyst during the Cowboys' win over the Browns drew an impressive average of 23.93 million viewers.
Yes, but: While the overall viewership numbers are impressive, individual networks also experienced notable successes:
- Fox's doubleheader games averaged 18.64 million viewers, marking their best start since 2020.
- CBS enjoyed its most-watched Week 1 singleheader since 1998, averaging 17.79 million viewers for its six games.
- The Eagles' Friday night victory over the Packers garnered 14.0 million viewers on Peacock and NBC affiliates.
- "Monday Night Football" on ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN+ averaged 20.4 million viewers for the 49ers' win over the Jets.
What to watch: The strong viewership numbers bode well for future NFL broadcasts and may indicate continued high interest throughout the season.
- The NFL remains one of the most popular sports leagues in the United States, commanding a loyal fan base and attracting new viewers each year.
- Increased viewership can lead to higher advertising revenues and sponsorship opportunities for the league and its teams.
- The success of the opening week games sets a positive tone for the remainder of the season, generating excitement among fans and players alike.
Hans Schroeder, EVP of NFL Media, expressed enthusiasm about the viewership numbers:
- He described the start as "great" and highlighted the excitement surrounding the return of football.
- Schroeder praised the Friday night game's performance on a new night and window, indicating satisfaction with its reception.
The bottom line: The NFL's opening week games captivated viewers, drawing record-breaking numbers across various networks. The strong start to the season demonstrates the enduring popularity and widespread appeal of America's favorite sport.