The NFL preseason got off to a good start on NFL Network.
Thursday’s Packers/Patriots NFL preseason game drew 2.5 million viewers on NFL Network, up 40% from 49ers/Ravens last year (1.8M) and the second-largest preseason audience ever on the network. Only Browns/Lions last year, which marked the debut of Browns QB Johnny Manziel, earned a larger audience (2.8M).
The strong numbers are no surprise, given the popularity of the Packers and Patriots and the controversy surrounding Patriots QB Tom Brady.
Later in the night, Cowboys/Chargers earned 1.6 million viewers — up 8% from the same matchup last year (1.4M) and up 127% from Seahawks/Chargers in 2013, a game that was joined in progress (685K).
(Thu. numbers via ShowBuzz Daily)
