Monday Night Football hit a season-low in the overnights, but the numbers held up reasonably well for such low-profile matchup.
The Week 9 Bears/Chargers Monday Night Football game drew an 8.1 overnight rating on ESPN, down 5% from Giants/Colts last year (8.5) and down 22% from Bears/Packers in 2013 (10.4). The 8.1 is the lowest for MNF in Week 9 of the season since at least 2007.
The 8.1 is also the lowest for any MNF telecast this season, falling below the previous mark of 8.5 for the Chargers’ previous appearance — against the Steelers in Week 5.
Despite the season and multi-year lows, Monday’s game held up relatively well considering the quality of the matchup. While the game was close, the Bears and Chargers entered with a combined 4-11 record. Four games last season had a lower overnight, and three did in 2013.
ESPN’s telecast drew a 12.1 rating in Chicago and an 11.7 in San Diego. The game was simulcast on local affiliates in both markets, earning a 10.2 on Chicago independent affiliate WCIU and a 19.6 on San Diego CBS affiliate KFMB. Las Vegas was the top neutral market with a 13.4, followed by Denver (11.3) and Phoenix (10.8).
(Mon. numbers from ESPN)
