Why the NFL chose NBC for Rams-Bears divisional-round game
Chicago Sun-Times • • general
Key Points:
- NBC will air the Rams-Bears divisional-round NFL playoff game Sunday at 5:30 p.m., marking the first time “Sunday Night Football” broadcasts a divisional playoff game in this traditionally CBS and Fox time slot.
- The NFL’s scheduling decision aims to balance games across networks and build momentum for NBC's upcoming Super Bowl broadcast, with the Rams-Bears matchup expected to draw strong national and local viewership.
- NBC Chicago will capitalize on airing the Bears game by following it with a “Playoff Extra” show featuring local sports personalities to engage the audience further.
- The NFL prioritizes maximizing viewership over accommodating team rest schedules, as seen in the decision to keep the 49ers-Seahawks game at
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