In a reversal from the overnights, final numbers for the NFL’s season opener improved slightly over last year.
The Ravens/Broncos NFL Kickoff Game earned a 14.9 final rating and 25.1 million viewers on NBC Thursday night, up 1% in ratings and 5% in viewership from Cowboys/Giants last year (14.7, 23.9M), and down 7% and 8%, respectively, from Saints/Packers in 2011 (16.0, 27.2M). Last year’s game aired on a Wednesday night opposite the Democratic National Convention.
Ravens/Broncos ranks as the third-most viewed NFL Kickoff Game ever (12 telecasts dating back to 2002), trailing only 2011 and Vikings/Saints in 2010 (16.5, 27.5M). The numbers held up well considering the 30-minute delay at the start of the game and the Broncos’ relatively easy victory.
Among adults 18-49, Thursday’s game drew a 10.3 rating — up 6% from last year (9.7), and down 6% from 2011 (10.9).
Overall, Ravens/Broncos ranks as television’s top program in ratings, viewership and adults 18-49 since Game 7 of the NBA Finals in June (15.3, 26.3M, 10.6 A18-49). Excluding the NFL playoffs, only one other sporting event this year had a higher rating and more viewers — the Alabama/Notre Dame BCS National Championship Game (15.1, 26.4M).
(Thu. numbers from NBC Sports Group Press Box)
