The NFL on CBS is off to the strongest start for the AFC broadcast package since at least the late 1980s.
CBS is averaging an 11.7 rating and 19.382 million viewers for NFL coverage through Week 2, up 18% and 19%, respectively, from last year (9.9, 16.226 mil).
According to CBS, this is the highest average for the AFC broadcast package since at least 1987. The network’s records do not go back further.
Sunday’s early window on CBS (featuring Vikings/Dolphins) drew a 9.0 final rating and 14.830 million viewers, up 6% in ratings and viewership from last year (NE/NYJ*: 8.5, 13.965 mil).
Later in the day, the national window (featuring Patriots/Jets) drew a 16.2 and 27.010 million viewers — up 12% and 13%, respectively, from last year (PIT/CHI*: 14.5, 23.879 mil) and the most-viewed September NFL telecast on the network since ’87.
Asterisk (*) indicates featured game of window.
