NFL Network averages best audience ever

With an average 4.0 U.S. rating and 6.4 million viewers for its expanded 13-game schedule this season, the NFL Network announced its best audience since they began airing regular-season games in 2006.

Excluding over-the-air numbers, this year marks the fourth straight year of growth. Compared with last year, NFL Network jumped 11 percent in the ratings. Including over-the-air numbers, the Network averaged a 4.6 rating and 7.3 million viewers.