The NFL's decision to move the Pro Bowl to an afternoon slot paid dividends when it comes to the game's ratings.

A considerable amount of people tuned into watch this year's Pro Bowl than in 2017, as the league decided to kickoff their all-start game this past Sunday at 3:00 p.m. The Pro Bowl was played on prime time the previous year.

Per @MacN_ESPN earlier Pro Bowl was good news, up 28% to a 5.9 overnight rating (2017 = 4.6 overnight rating) — Sports TV Ratings (@SportsTVRatings) January 29, 2018

With an NFL best 10 Steelers on their roster, team AFC overcame a 20-3 deficit to edge the NFC, 24-23. And while many still criticize the lack of physicality in the game, it was clear that the players in the Pro Bowl certainly enjoyed their experience while celebrating their successful seasons.

"It’s an awesome experience. Every player should get to experience this," Pittsburgh defensive end Cam Heyward told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette about his first Pro Bowl experience. "Now I have to tell my guys to get back here, too. Hopefully, we’re busy [playing in a Super Bowl], but I want to see more defensive guys here.”