'Elementary' adds two episodes, 'Vegas' loses one

Last month, CBS awarded full-season orders to its two successful new dramas, Elementary and Vegas. As the Eye network firms up its scheduling needs for the remainder of the season, it has decided to tweak those orders, requesting two more episodes of Elementary and trimming Vegas by one.

The strongest of CBS's slate of new shows this fall, the modern-day Sherlock Holmes reboot Elementary was recently selected to fill the lucrative timeslot immediately following the network's broadcast of the Super Bowl on February 3. That episode will account for one of the two additional episodes ordered by CBS, bringing the total to 24 for the rookie season of Elementary.

While networks occasionally opt to debut new series in the post-Super Bowl slot, most shows usually have to wait until their second season to be considered for the position. Combined with the order for extra episodes on top of the standard 22, this is a big vote of confidence for Elementary from CBS.

Although Vegas skews toward an older audience with its subject matter and star Dennis Quaid, the period drama still ranked as the most-watched new series of the fall when it was picked up for a full season. After it dropped 6% to match a series low this week, Vegas saw its first season reduced by one episode to a total of 21. In the parlance of Sin City... blackjack!

It's hard to fault CBS for this decision. Not only does Elementary draw stronger ratings than Vegas, it has the most potential for the future with a younger audience and more contemporary setting. Which show do you prefer?