WWE Smackdown Preempted For Several Weeks Due To NFL Preseason Games

WWE SmackDown has been the flagship show for the global juggernaut on FOX television for years. However, in the light of the upcoming NFL preseason games, there are alterations that could be made in regards to its broadcasting and viewership.

According to the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, over the next few weeks, SmackDown on FOX will face several preemptions in different markets due to NFL preseason games being broadcast by local affiliates.

As a result, WWE SmackDown will air in alternative time slots in several markets. This situation may lead to inconsistencies in the initial viewership numbers, as they might inadvertently include the higher NFL game ratings from these FOX stations, which could artificially inflate the blue brand’s numbers.

Moreover, it was further stated that, although the final viewership numbers are supposed to exclude data from stations airing the NFL games, there have been instances where errors occurred, causing the numbers to be adjusted days later. Furthermore, fans and analysts should be aware of these potential discrepancies when reviewing SmackDown’s ratings during this period.

“There will be a number of Smackdown preemptions on FOX in different markets over the next few weeks with the local affiliate broadcasting NFL preseason games. In most cases the show will air at a different time slot. Over the next few weeks, the fast nationals, if people see them as most sources for them no longer exist, would give numbers that are artificially high because they would be counting the NFL numbers on those FOX stations which are much higher than the wrestling number. The final numbers are supposed to not include the stations airing the NFL, but at times mistakes happen and numbers have been adjusted days later.”

The NFL preseason games began in full swing on Thursday, August 8 with the first game between the Panthers-Patriots and Lions-Giants. With SmackDown metrics and airing schedule reported to be temporarily disrupted by the NFL, we will have to wait and see the final numbers as they emerge on FOX.

What are your thoughts on SmackDown preempted for several weeks due to the NFL preseason games? Sound off in the comments!