Football Goes Black to Hype NBC's 'Green Week'

Well, viewers are in for a treat on NBC this coming week. Okay, maybe not.

NBC is taking a “green” gamble to boost sagging ratings as sweeps month begins, by weaving environmental plotlines throughout its programming lineup including many primetime shows throughout “Green Week,” November 4-9.

Eco-programming will kickoff, literally, as “Football Night in America” goes dark for the final minute on November 4. Yes, because turning off those studio lights for one minute will somehow remedy the stadium lights that will burn brightly over the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles game for the next three hours.

According to the Web site for “Green Week,” viewers will presumably get to watch Hayden Panattiere offer the pathetic cheer, “R-E-C-Y-C-L-E, It’s our planet, let’s plant a tree” on “Heroes” November 5. Bringing a whole new meaning to the show’s previous catchphrase, “Save the Cheerleader, Save the World.”

Other shows to go green: "The Singing Bee," "30 Rock" (with guest star Al Gore), "Scrubs," "ER" and more.

The purpose of “Green Week” is “entertaining, informing and empowering Americans to lead greener lives,” according to the site. It will certainly empower me -- to change the channel.