The excitement and anticipation that come with the release of the NFL schedule is unparalleled. Every year, fans eagerly wait for the matchups that will dictate the narrative of the season. The NFL’s 2023 season is no exception. Here’s a look at three teams that seem to have gotten the shorter end of the stick when it comes to their hardest schedules:
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NFL Teams with Hardest Schedules
1. Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles, despite their Super Bowl 57 loss, held high hopes for the upcoming season. With talents like Jalen Hurts leading the charge, the team seemed primed for success. However, their 2023 schedule might prove a hurdle too high to overcome.
Their opponent lineup includes teams with an impressive combined previous season record of 161-123-4. The latter part of their schedule, in particular, appears to be a gauntlet of high-caliber teams, including the likes of the Chiefs, Bills, 49ers, and Cardinals.
The Test Ahead
The Eagles face a particularly demanding stretch from Week 6 to Week 18, playing against nine playoff teams from the prior season. The Jets, bolstered by Aaron Rodgers, can’t be dismissed either. For the Eagles, it will be a testament to their resilience and skill if they can emerge from this stretch with a favorable record.
2. Las Vegas Raiders
Post-Derek Carr Raiders saw Jimmy Garoppolo stepping into the quarterback role, attempting to lead the Raiders to new heights. However, with the trading away of star tight end Darren Waller and an already challenging AFC West division, the Raiders face a mountainous task.
The Brutal Middle Season
From Week 8 to Week 16, the Raiders meet six playoff teams from 2022. While a 34-day home stand might offer some reprieve, facing juggernauts like the Chiefs, Vikings, and Chargers can wear any team down, especially with a bye week thrown into the mix. This stretch will be a real litmus test for the Raiders’ revamped roster and their playoff hopes.
3. New York Giants
The Giants emerged as the dark horse of the 2022 season. Despite cap space limitations, they clinched a playoff spot with a 9-6-1 record and even secured a playoff win against the Vikings. Their 2023 roster additions, including the likes of Darren Waller and Parris Campbell, indicate a team gearing up for another playoff run.
A Rocky Road Ahead
Despite their enhancements, the Giants face a daunting schedule. Their opponents collectively secured a 157-129-2 record in the previous season. Most concerning is the structure of their matchups; the Giants play 7 road games in the initial 11 weeks.
Their schedule includes clashes with formidable teams like the Cardinals, 49ers, and Seahawks. Additionally, ending the season with two games against the talented Eagles isn’t the most comforting of prospects.
Can History Repeat Itself?
Given their surprise performance in 2022, the Giants could again overcome the odds. However, considering their turbulent start, simply maintaining a winning record by Week 12 would be a commendable achievement.
Conclusion: The Battle Against the Calendar
While the NFL’s scheduling can sometimes seem unforgiving, it often brings out the best in teams, pushing them to their limits. For the Eagles, Raiders, and Giants, the 2023 season will be a test of their mettle, skill, and resilience. As fans and pundits dissect the matchups, one thing is clear: the road to the Lombardi Trophy is filled with challenges, and this season will be a testament to that fact.
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