In Github, is there a way I can see the number of downloads for a repo?
Very late, but here is the answer you want:
https://api.github.com/repos/ [git username] / [git project] /releases
Next, find the id of the project you are looking for in the data. It should be near the top, next to the urls. Then, navigate to
https://api.github.com/repos/ [git username] / [git project] /releases/ [id] / assets
The field named download_count is your answer.
EDIT: Capitals matter in your username and project name