Why is Wolf Smiling?

As noted last week, CNN’s Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer has been consistently losing to MSNBC’s Hardball with Chris Matthews in the 25-54 demographic this month. Sure, it’s been fueled by the Olympics. But MSNBC’s Olympic coverage usually ends an hour or more before Hardball starts. Here are the monthly averages:

25-54 demographic, 7 to 8pm:

Feb. 2006 to date: Shep: 377,000 / Blitzer: 153,000 / Hardball: 177,000

Jan. 2006: Shep: 376,000 / Blitzer: 151,000 / Hardball: 134,000

Dec. 2005: Shep: 324,000 / Blitzer: 150,000 / Hardball: 133,000

MSNBC has enjoyed a similar ratings boost at 8pm, with Countdown’s Keith Olbermann frequently challenging Paula Zahn for #2 in the demo.

Will Matthews beat Blitzer for the month at 7pm? With MSNBC breathing down CNN’s neck, will Jon Klein and co. make a change? (We’ve suggested John Roberts…)

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