Smackdown Rating: First rating of 2018 compared to last two years, monthly comparisons (w/Keller’s Analysis)

The first WWE Smackdown of the new year this week drew a 1.80 rating, up from the 1.78 rating one year ago. It was also above the Dec. 26 episode last week, which drew a 1.76.

The ten week rolling average headed into this week was 1.79, so this week’s rating is right in line with the typical rating of the last stretch of 2017.

Viewership was 2.720 million.

Keller’s Analysis: Two years ago, Smackdown averaged 1.84 in January, and last year Smackdown averaged a 1.86 in January. So it’s something to keep an eye on as January 2018 progresses if Smackdown, focused on Daniel Bryan, Shane McMahon, Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn, and A.J. Styles headed into the Royal Rumble can match the rating of the last two years.

NOW CHECK OUT THIS PREVIOUS UPDATE: Raw Rating: First viewership data of 2018 compared to last year’s debut show, hourly drop less than usual (w/Keller’s Analysis)