Why were the Olympics so popular this year?

Was it the time zone allowing us to watch live events?  Was it the success of Americans?  Was it feel good stories during time of war and a struggling economy?  No. no. and no.

I think it was the thrills and chills.

We realized that the Olympics events are very dangerous.  There was a fatality before the opening ceremony.  Lindsey Vonn either medaled or crashed.  Ohno medaled while others crashed.  We watched crazy stunts in snowboarding, ski jumpings, and moguls.

When Ohno said it was "NASCAR on ice", he was referring to the madness that is Short Track.  I think the phrase might apply to the entire two weeks.  You watch hoping for a spectacular crash (and wishing that no one gets hurt).