CBS Expecting To Show Lots Of Shots, Big Prime Time PGA Ratings

If you’ve been watching other return sports of late, you know from the mistakes and other oddities that what the CBS golf team has pulled off in a time of pandemic has been nothing short of astounding.

This week they bring more extras, goodies and personnel to Harding Park for the first major, though they are still working with teams in different parts of the world to bring everyone the PGA Championship.

Ad sales have been brisk, according to CBS Sports head Sean McManus. So, with a new deal starting this year, it seems the PGA of America may have negotiated a package that may make for a cleaner broadcast than with the past (awful) contract.

Dave Shedloski reports for GolfDigest.com:

Regardless, ad sales for the network have been strong, and McManus was proud to point out that only a few units remain unsold, and, more importantly for viewers, 50 percent of the national inventory is of the “two-box” variety, also known as the “Eye On The Course” feature that keeps half the screen on the action.

Host Jim Nantz estimated that the result is an extra 35-40 shots aired per hour.

“I'm going to talk as a fan here … that’s a big deal,” Nantz said. “You start adding up how many shots you're going to be able to see, now that you don't normally have to come back to and get behind on tape, that you're going to be able to show people live, start multiplying that by a two-and-a-half minute window. That’s a tremendous benefit to us.”

On another TV note, while I didn’t have sound up as much as I’d like while working on site, ESPN’s effort is looking to be substantial

Just based on today’s ESPN+ efforts, the worldwide leader is bringing its polish, verve and a different perspective that should quickly help us forget the TNT years. Which, really need forgetting. But more than that, if the early week coverage continues, their role in the week has the potential to elevate the PGA more than any venue, format, date change or “branding” campaign.

Here is their update on ESPN+ coverage streaming Tiger and friends Thursday.