The NFL enjoyed a strong wild-card weekend, averaging nearly 28 million viewers per game, even with one-sided matchups. Notably, the Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers game attracted a record-setting 22.07 million viewers, making it the most-watched streamed playoff game ever. Despite lopsided scores, every wild-card matchup surpassed the 20 million mark, showcasing the league's strong fan engagement. Interestingly, small-market teams like the Detroit Lions and Kansas City Chiefs led the ratings, highlighting the NFL's growing parity in both gameplay and viewership.

In the NHL, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks experienced a tough week, each struggling with multiple losses. The Canucks faced a particularly disheartening defeat, being outscored heavily in their last two games. Meanwhile, former NFL star Tom Brady faced scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest in his role as a commentator while also being involved with the Las Vegas Raiders. This week marked a significant moment in both leagues, reflecting the evolving dynamics of sports media and fan engagement.