The post-Super Bowl timeslot is probably the most coveted in TV because of the massive lead-in audience — upwards of 100 million viewers — it can drive to a program. Each year the network broadcasting the big game selects one of its shows for the plum spot, usually an up-and-coming series (or promising newcomer). Here’s a refresher on what’s aired in that time period the past five years, and how each fared.
“Elementary” (CBS), Feb. 3, 2013: 20.8 million viewers.
An FBI profiler and ex-lover of Holmes (Jonny Lee Miller) re-enters his life.
“The Voice” (NBC), Feb. 5, 2012: 37.6 million viewers. Second-season premiere with coaches Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo Green, Adam Levine and Blake Shelton.
“Glee” (Fox), Feb. 6, 2011: 26.8 million viewers. When cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester (Jane Lynch) withdraws her squad from the halftime show, the McKinley High football team and glee club are forced to come together to perform a routine and win the game.
“Undercover Boss” (CBS), Feb. 7, 2010: 38.6 million. Series premiere episode featured Waste Management, Inc., in Houston, Texas, and COO Lawrence O’Donnell.
“The Office” (NBC), Feb. 1, 2009: 22.9 million viewers. Stanley suffers a heart attack after Dwight stages a fire to test the office’s fire safety skills. Cameos by Jack Black, Jessica Alba and Cloris Leachman.