Giants-Cowboys Set "SNF" Ratings Record

The Giants’ thrilling 33-31 win over the Cowboys last night was a double record-setter: in addition to the game drawing the largest regular-season crowd in NFL history to the new Cowboys Stadium, it marks the highest-rated telecast in NBC’s four years of “Sunday Night Football.” The 16.5/27 overnight rating is the highest figure for any regular-season game in primetime since ’98. While the renewal of the heated NFC East rivalry will draw a crowd wherever the teams play, part of the draw last night has to be the formal unveiling of the Cowboys’ well-hyped $1.2B stadium. Fans at JerryWorld are treated to a video comparing the new stadium to landmarks like the Taj Mahal and Great Wall of China, and numerous luminaries show up to bask in the celebration, including George W. Bush, Rudy Giuliani and former Cowboys stars.

Anti-Lockout Brakes
NFL teams starting to draft contracts for execs and coaches that call for huge salary cuts, possible termination in the event of work stoppage.

Ain't No Sunshine 
Jaguars experience first of what could be many blackouts this season; Dolphins counting on new celeb partners to attract fans.

Whistle While You (Don't) Work
NBA dispute with referees continues to get uglier, with both sides trading jabs over lockout.

Climbing Out Of The Saddle? 
Pengrowth founder may give up entitlement of Calgary arena as his ties to company diminish.

Starts At The TOP
IOC hires longtime marketing execs Prazmark, Shepard to improve sponsor program.

New Kid In Town
While Chelios denies push for reinstatement of Paul Kelly, Crosby is latest star wanting answers.

Thunder & Lightning
Clay Bennett will see boost to team's bottom line with new Ford Center renovations. 

Gator Aid 
Tennessee-Florida earns CBS its top-rated opener since '02; NASCAR kicks off the Chase with 2.5 on ABC.