The Denver Broncos and New Orleans Saints clashed in a Thursday night matchup that lacked excitement-but not viewers. Despite being labeled a “stinker,” the NFL showdown still drew more eyes than two high-stakes MLB League Championship Series games.
Amazon Prime’s broadcast of the Broncos’ lopsided 33-10 win managed 9.81 million viewers-marking a season-low for Thursday Night Football. However, it still outperformed last year’s Week 7 matchup between the Jaguars and Saints (9.79 million viewers) and delivered a resounding win over baseball’s postseason audience.
Game 3 of the American League Championship Series between the Yankees and Guardians, packed with late-inning heroics, drew only 4.3 million viewers.
Meanwhile, the National League Championship Series Game 4 featuring the Dodgers and Mets pulled in a mere 3.96 million viewers, despite superstar Shohei Ohtani leading the Dodgers to a 10-2 blowout.
Sean Payton’s return to New Orleans stole the spotlight
The football game’s numbers are especially surprising given its lack of competitiveness. Broncos head coach Sean Payton’s much-hyped return to New Orleans was overshadowed by injuries plaguing the Saints, draining much of the excitement from the matchup. Even so, the NFL’s dominance in viewership remained unshaken.
Looking ahead, Thursday Night Football’s next broadcast promises more intrigue: the undefeated Minnesota Vikings take on the Los Angeles Rams. With two dynamic teams on display, fans and broadcasters expect a better performance-on the field and in the ratings.
MLB continues to struggle for attention
In contrast, MLB’s postseason continues to struggle for attention despite thrilling moments. The Guardians staved off elimination against the Yankees with clutch home runs from Jhonkensy Noel and David Fry. Ohtani and the Dodgers, for their part, are now one win away from the World Series.
Yet, the NFL’s ability to attract more viewers, even with a dull game, leaves little doubt about which sport holds America’s attention. For now, football reigns supreme-even when the product isn’t exactly a touchdown.
