Shock Therapy

For some reason, Grey's Anatomy defeating CSI in their first ratings face-off is being called "shocking." They were both among the highest-rated shows of last year, and Grey's was an up-and-comer, entering into its greatest strength. It had originally been lucky enough to follow the huge hit Deperate Housewives, but soon enough was getting higher ratings than its lead-in. It was much more powerful, relatively speaking, than Lost was against American Idol, or to go back a bit, Miami Vice against Dallas.

ABC advertised heavily, so everyone was aware of Grey's new timeslot. I expected it to win (perhaps not so handily) and most people I knew who cared about such things expected it, too. What's the big surprise?