"If the elimination-by-couples blueprint is adhered to until the end, Big Brother could have an uncommonly brief run of six or seven weeks, about half the usual."

One possible explanation for the potential quick ending is CBS is leaving its options open, in case ratings that have been solid for summer outings don't measure up during the regular Nielsen season. On the other hand, if things go well, the dual eliminations could be scrapped and the run could be extended almost to the end of the season in May.

Grodner is playing it coy about the game plan and end date. "You know Big Brother. Expect the unexpected."

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Ugh. So the ratings will decide if we get a full season or not. CBS blows.