Florida State win gives The CW record 2.1 million sports audience

Florida State's 34-17 win over New Mexico State on 29 Aug 2026 averaged 2.1 million viewers, making it The CW's most-watched sports broadcast ever, Variety reported. Nexstar said viewing peaked at 2.4 million between 9:15 and 9:30 p.m. ET. The game kicked off at 6:30 p.m. ET in Florida State's 2026 season opener.