Some suggest that the resolution of the whodunit was delayed until the November "sweep" period as a ratings ploy.

As Alma's illness and deterioration proceeded with such amazing speed I really did feel I was being asked to take part in a cheap ratings ploy.

BNN said it had wanted to draw attention to the shortage of organ donors in the Netherlands; others suggested that the hoax was just a ratings ploy.

The two stars scheduled to appear are kidnapped, and some think it is a ratings ploy, but Nancy uncovers the truth and only she can save them.

Heigl was critical of her character's development in the show's fourth season, particularly her affair with George, which she deemed "a ratings ploy".

Heigl, who portrayed Stevens, was particularly critical of her character's relationship with O'Malley, deeming it "a ratings ploy".

Ashes used in ratings ploy.

Switch teams It may seem like a ratings ploy on shows like ABC's Desperate Housewives, but it does happen.

Katherine Heigl herself deemed their relationship "a ratings ploy".

Speculation arose that Combs firing O'Day was a ratings ploy and that he had no intention of truly dismissing her.