Cowboys Still a Ratings Draw Despite Recent Struggles

Even when on the field, the Dallas Cowboys might not be shining, their TV viewership remains strong. Last night’s clash between the Cowboys and the Bengals on ABC, ESPN, and ESPN2 drew in an average audience of 18.7 million viewers, proving that America’s Team still commands a sizable audience.

It’s worth noting, however, that this number doesn’t top the streaming numbers for Thursday’s Packers-Lions game exclusively aired on Prime Video. Initially reported at 17.29 million, updated figures placed the viewership at 18.48 million. This suggests a shift in how fans are consuming NFL football, with streaming platforms playing an increasingly vital role.

The NFL acknowledges this trend and is aiming to combat it by expanding ABC simulcasts for games in 2024. This move aims to capitalize on the higher viewership drawn in by the network, boosting overall broadcast numbers.

A Peek into Other Programming

The ManningCast, always a popular secondary viewing option, attracted 900,000 viewers. This marks a change in ESPN’s approach, as they previously refrained from disclosing viewership figures below the one million mark. The network’s Simpsons-themed “Twist” on the game, exclusive to ESPN+ and Disney+, did not receive any official viewership figures.

While the NFL continues to explore innovative ways to engage fans, the Cowboys’ consistent television draw reminds us that tradition and brand recognition still hold considerable sway in the world of sports entertainment.

Stay tuned for more insightful football news and analysis!