I haven't looked but if I had to guess, most of the bowls probably did better. That being said, I bet this year's Winter Classic was one of, if not the highest rated. They did a good job building interest around the two stars, as well as the HBO deal. It's helping to build a larger hockey audience and I all for that. It's one of the best sports out there and is probably number 6 ranked behind other sports in this country.
On a side note, I was laughing hysterically at Crosby cursing and crying up a storm when he didn't get a call. Also, Ovechkin sounds funny when he is on the ice because his accent is there while he's yelling. But definitely can see his intensity more than Crosby.
As a hockey fan I watch this game every year. Also as a fan Caps/Pens is appointment TV for me because the games are always good. With HBO running their special I got emotionally involved this year more than anything else and i was looking forward to this game more than any other. Not sure how that would affect a casual fan or a non-fan. But I think it couldn't hurt if they watched the build up. Getting emotionally involved always helps.
When I see the Ravens play on TV I watch for Michael Oher, that is because of the Blind Side. You just have an attachment to the person beyond football.
Now I would have liked to see what the numbers would have been at 1pm when the game was advertised for. 4 million for a hockey game is a good number for the NHL...4 million for a game that was moved 24 hours before the game started is even more impressive. Could they have got 6 at 1pm...not sure, but I do believe the number was hurt not helped by the move to 8pm Saturday night.
On a side note...tdub and PV are both gone thanks to me...Your welcome.
