A new report indicates a shift may be coming to the rankings among the big four broadcast networks. The report from TheWrap.com gives NBC, which has been mired in fourth place in the ratings for some time, a good chance of moving up to third during the upcoming season, even without a bona fide hit.

NBC, which starts breaking out its new shows tonight, might be able to overtake third-place ABC, helped by its new Wednesday night comedy block and new shows such as "The Playboy Club," the story says. NBC is holding half of its new shows until midseason, when "The Voice," the network’s latest breakout hit, will return, the piece adds.

"It may all be enough to help the network surpass ABC, which like NBC is playing it safe this fall. Last season, ABC narrowly beat NBC for third place in the 18-49 race, averaging a 2.5 rating/7 share for the season vs. a 2.3/6," the story points out.

NBC rolls out new comedies “Up All Night” and “Free Agents” tonight.