It ultimately depends on how nebulous the show will proceed and if anything is spelled out or if anything is resolved. If the show doesn't spell things out clearly enough, the prediction you have about poor ratings may come true for future episodes, despite the fact the pilot episode was as highly rated at the pilot for the first season for True Detective. It'll be interesting to see how things proceed. I think I've said it before, but I'm curious how tight a leash HBO will have on this show in general.