NBC Riding Phelps To Strong Early Ratings

NBC is strong out of the gate with its coverage of the Beijing Games and has an inside line of having the most viewed Olympics in history. The network is riding a superb Opening Ceremony and Michael Phelps' pursuit to strong early ratings and is currently pacing a healthy 22% ahead of Athens, topping most analysts’ expectations. As for its overall coverage? Critics are taking shots at the network’s live vs. plausibly live presentation. Shifting to the studio, Bob Costas is an early media favorite for his knowledge and outspokenness, but one has to wonder if the White House expected his direct political questions of President Bush during his primetime chat last night. Meanwhile, NBC’s online numbers are strong and show no signs of cannibalizing the network rating.

Masters Of The Hardwood 
NBC earns healthy 9.5/24 overnight for Sunday morning U.S.-China hoops game; CCTV states stout 184 million viewers watch the game. 

Security Toughens After Attack 
BOCOG tightens security after Saturday attack; USOC sees no need to change delegate protection.

Too Soon To Celebrate?
Despite rave early reviews, some issues emerge in Beijing, including empty venues, sparse sponsor Green area.

Horse Whisperers
Ralph Lauren’s uniform designs earn mixed reviews, fail to generate significant fashion buzz.

Cash Cow 
Chick-fil-A signs on to sponsor ESPN's "College GameDay," including Corso's pick segment. 

Adding Power To The Lineup 
Fred Malek joins Sports Properties’ bid for Cubs, while Cuban looks to add Chicago investors.

These Boots Were Made For Talking
Leiweke says loan to Del Biaggio was intended to get management rights to Sommet Center, not designed to move team to K.C.

Over & Back
WNBA Houston Comets for sale after just two years under Hilton Koch.