Ratings: ‘The Biggest Loser’ wins night; ‘Deception’ so-so for NBC

When you consider that all of network primetime was up against the BCS National Title Game over on ESPN, you have to think that all of the major television networks are feeling pretty okay about themselves right now. While there were some drops among some of the heavily-touted programming, you also have to remember one thing: it could have been so much worse.

Take, for example, “The Bachelor.” While the reality juggernaut was down by a tenth of a point in the 18-49 demographic versus the one featuring Ben Flajnik last year, a 2.3 is still pretty great. This shows that there is a great deal of retention with this franchise, and unless he takes someone very unlikable to the end like a Courtney Robertson, he is probably going to see these numbers surpass Ben’s season at some point.

Meanwhile, “The Biggest Loser” is probably feeling something similar. The show likely knew that it was going to lose some viewers following the premiere, especially given the competition. However, a 2.4 rating is still very solid and actually equal to the premiere last year. This season is still going very well, and the network has to be pleased that they won the night considering all of the doom and gloom surrounding their upcoming midseason schedule. It could have been much, much, worse, and the same goes to “Deception” for winning its timeslot with a 2.0 for its premiere. Granted, we expect a good many viewers to leave next week or were either unimpressed or off to watch a new “Hawaii Five-0” instead.

The only other thing worth pointing out is that “Castle” scored a 1.9 in its return to the air, which is up from a 1.7 for its Christmas episode.

What did you watch Monday? If you want to read our full “Biggest Loser” review, you can do so over here.

Photo: NBC