the buzz log

The Olympics are nearly here, and the world's premier couch athletes are ready. They've toned their thumbs, stretched their legs, and plumped the cushions on the sofa. All that remains is to establish the exact viewing schedule for total Games success.

And so it begins. Over the past week, TV viewers have pushed "2008 olympics tv schedule" up nearly 1,740% in Search. They've tossed variations on that theme—"2008 olympic tv schedule" (+1,193%), "olympics tv schedule" (+766%), and "olympics schedule" (+452%)—high in the air. And they've propelled interest upwards in "team usa basketball schedule" (+ 174%).

As to who these skilled American viewers are—they break down surprisingly equally between the two genders. Though nearly every age group has researched the broadcasts from Beijing, adults between the years of 35 to 44 account for the most active seekers.

Whether or not the Olympics turn out to be a smash hit for NBC remains to be seen, but in these days running up to opening ceremonies, thousands of sofa stars have certainly prepped for the activities.