NBC Looks To Olympics To Provide Momentum

NBC execs were brimming with confidence yesterday in previewing their coverage of the Winter Games. The net estimates a $60-75M profit from Salt Lake, and NBC President Randy Falco said that the Games will result in a February sweeps ratings win and mega-numbers for NBC's affils during all dayparts. Meanwhile, NBC said that its polling data continues to show that between 80-90% of Americans intend to watch at least a portion of the Games. Finally, the net stressed a cleaner and more consistent tone to its broadcasts from UT.

MLB's Opening Day Starter
League gives all of its media and marketing duties to Interpublic's McCann-Erickson.

From The Pale Hose...
After being burned by the "It's Time" ad effort last year, White Sox launch a more benign "Come Ready To Play."

...And The Red Sox
Tom Werner seeks to bring new sports programming to NESN. Red Sox ownership group adds MA native Phillip Morse, who reportedly invests $50M.

They'll Love L.A.!
ESPN makes management changes and teams with Anschutz Entertainment Group to bring the ESPY Awards to L.A.

Looking To Know Its Audience
IOC to utilize Ask Jeeves' analytical software for relaunched portal.

Watch That Vector, Victor
NFL logo police on full alert to protect league sponsor Reebok during Media Day.

Brought To You By
Campbell's, Dodge and A-B among the advertisers during NFC Championship on Fox.