Boatmen blowout sinks CFL TV ratings in Week 2

The Canadian Football League television ratings took on water, but not near the level of the Argos in Week 2.

The Ticats trouncing in Toronto came in as the least watched contest, which isn’t a surprise. After 45 minutes of play the scoreline: 41-6 for the visitors. It was a beautiful first official weekend of the summer in Southern Ontario, so likely many were outside soaking in the sun.

Overall the Week 2 ratings dropped 16.9 per cent year-over-year. Last year’s number from the same week saw a four-game average of 492,450. The average english language audience for Week 1 games was 523,400, down 10.5 per cent from 585,200 in 2018. In total, through two weeks, CFL ratings have fallen 14.2 per cent (2018 Weeks 1 and 2 538,825 compared to 2019 Weeks 1 and 2: 462,216).

After B.C. drew 685,800 in a late night time slot against Winnipeg to open the Lions season, but like Mike Reilly being pounded into the turf the number crashed to less than 400,000. Meanwhile, the Riders held firm from Week 1, however, Saskatchewan’s team is still much lower than a year ago.

Week 2 TV ratings:

Thursday
Saskatchewan at Ottawa: 521,400

Friday
B.C. at Edmonton: 383,100

Saturday
Hamilton at Toronto: 322,600

Total Week 2 average: 409,033

Justin Dunk

Football insider, reporter and analyst.