Netflix Sets Streaming Record with Christmas Day NFL Games

Netflix Sets Records for Most Streamed NFL Games Ever

Exclusive Rights to Show Christmas Day Matchups

Christmas came right on time for Netflix, as the streamer set records for the most streamed NFL games ever in the U.S., according to Nielsen. Nearly 65 million people across the U.S. tuned in to the two NFL matchups on Christmas Day, which Netflix held exclusive rights to show.

Record-Breaking Viewership

The Baltimore Ravens’ victory over the Houston Texans averaged 24.3 million viewers, while the Kansas City Chiefs’ win against the Pittsburgh Steelers averaged 24.1 million, according to Nielsen. The U.S. audience for the Ravens vs. Texans game peaked during Beyoncé’s halftime performance, with over 27 million viewers tuning in to watch the star-studded performance.

NFL and Netflix Partnership

Wednesday’s games were the first in a three-year deal between the NFL and Netflix to show Christmas matchups exclusively on the streaming giant. Netflix Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria said in a press release, "Bringing our members this record-breaking day of two NFL games was the best Christmas gift we could have delivered. We’re thankful for our partnership with the NFL, all of our wonderful on-air talent, and let’s please not forget the electrifying Beyoncé and the brilliant Mariah Carey."

NBA Sets Record for Most-Watched Christmas Day

The NFL wasn’t the only sports league to feel the Christmas cheer. The NBA — which typically dominates the Christmas sports schedule — set a record for its most-watched Christmas Day in five years, averaging 5.25 million viewers per game in the U.S. across five games throughout the day, according to Nielsen.

Los Angeles Lakers’ Victory

The Los Angeles Lakers’ victory over the Golden State Warriors was the most watched NBA regular season and Christmas Day game in five years, averaging 7.76 million viewers and peaking with 8.32 million viewers. The first game of the day, the New York Knicks’ win over the San Antonio Spurs, averaged 4.91 million viewers, making it the most watched Christmas Day opener in 13 years.

Conclusion

The strong ratings were a welcome sign for both the NFL and the NBA, which are struggling with lower viewership this year. The success of Netflix’s exclusive rights to show Christmas Day matchups is a testament to the power of streaming and the growing demand for live sports content.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What was the viewership for the NFL games on Christmas Day?
A: Nearly 65 million people across the U.S. tuned in to the two NFL matchups on Christmas Day.

Q: What was the average viewership for the Ravens vs. Texans game?
A: The game averaged 24.3 million viewers.

Q: What was the peak viewership for the Ravens vs. Texans game during Beyoncé’s halftime performance?
A: Over 27 million viewers tuned in to watch the performance.

Q: What was the viewership for the NBA games on Christmas Day?
A: The NBA set a record for its most-watched Christmas Day in five years, averaging 5.25 million viewers per game.