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Super Bowl XLIX becomes most-viewed U.S. TV Program

Associated Press

Super Bowls draw massive television ratings regardless of matchups and game results, but it never hurts to have one of the most dramatic, controversial finishes in football history.

So it was for Super Bowl XLIX, which now ranks as the most-watched program in American TV history.

The Patriots’ 28-24 victory over the Seahawks attracted an average audience of 114.4 million, according to Nielsen, surpassing the then-record 112.2 million for last year’s game.

The game’s rating, which measures the percentage of homes tuned in, was 47.5, the best such number since Super Bowl XX in 1986 and the fourth best ever.

The top five markets were Boston (61.0), New Orleans (55.7), Phoenix (55.6), Detroit (55.0) and Norfolk (55.0).

Seattle ranked only 17th with a rating of 52.1, but its share estimate – which calculates a percentage only of those TVs actually in use – was an astounding 89.

Judge seeks changes in concussion case

Anita Brody, the U.S. District Judge presiding over thousands of NFL concussion lawsuits, wants lawyers to tweak the proposed settlement to benefit more retired players.

Brody has granted preliminary approval but asked that players get credit for NFL Europe and that families have more time to file for deaths involving traumatic brain injury.

Ravens DT indicted for animal cruelty

Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Terrence Cody was indicted Monday on two counts of aggravated animal cruelty; 10 counts of animal cruelty; and one count each of possession of an alligator, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana.

The aggravated animal cruelty charges are related to the death of his dog on Jan. 19 and are felonies.

Peter Schaffer, Cody’s agent, said Cody “is a dog lover, an animal lover,” and still owns two dogs.

The Ravens announced that the team terminated Cody’s contract.

Around the League

The Colts signed former CFL receiver Duron Carter. … The NFL Network has fired broadcaster Warren Sapp after the Hall of Fame lineman was arrested for solicitation and assault.