James Hibberd

CBS once again edged out ABC among the key adults 18 to 49 demographic for a Thursday night victory, but this time won without the benefit of a “CSI”/“Without a Trace” crossover.

CBS had an on-par “Survivor” (a 4.8 preliminary rating, winning its hour) and “CSI” (6.4). As expected, “Without a Trace” (4.1) was down sharply from its crossover show, but up slightly from its last regular outing and won its hour.

ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy” (8.1) had its best rating since its season premiere. “Ugly Betty” was on par (3.5). At 10 p.m., ABC gave Friday night drama “Women’s Murder Club” (3.3) a spin in the post-“Grey’s” time period. The result: A series high for the show, but holding close to “Big Shots'” steep ratings dropoff in the time period.

NBC came in third place, but several comedies gave strong performances. There’s “My Name Is Earl” (up 9% to 3.6) and “30 Rock” (3.2—the highest rating since its season premiere). In the 9 p.m. hour, there’s the final new episode of “The Office” until the writers strike is resolved (4.8, also second only to the premiere) and “Scrubs” (an average 3.2). “ER” was on par (3.8).

Fox’s “Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader” hit a season high (2.9) and “Don’t Forget the Lyrics” was average (2.1).

The CW’s “Smallville” (1.8) and “Supernatural” (1.2) were on par.