In the ever-competitive world of the National Football League (NFL), the scheduling of games plays a crucial role in determining a team’s success. Each year, teams are assigned a set of opponents based on a rotating schedule, with some facing tougher challenges than others. In 2023, two teams that seem to have lucked out with relatively easier schedules are the New England Patriots and the New Orleans Saints.
The New England Patriots, under the leadership of legendary coach Bill Belichick, have long been a force to be reckoned with in the NFL. Despite a few recent seasons of rebuilding, the Patriots have managed to maintain their winning culture and are poised to make a strong comeback in 2023. Their schedule for the upcoming season seems to be in their favor, as they face opponents that are perceived to be less formidable compared to other teams.
One factor contributing to the Patriots’ favorable schedule is their divisional alignment. The AFC East, which includes the Patriots, consists of teams like the Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, and Buffalo Bills. While these teams have shown signs of improvement in recent years, they are still considered to be lesser threats compared to some other divisions in the league. As a result, the Patriots benefit from playing six games against divisional opponents who may not pose as significant challenges.
Furthermore, the Patriots’ non-divisional opponents for 2023 also contribute to their relatively easier schedule. They are set to face teams from the NFC South and AFC South divisions. While both divisions have talented teams, they lack the same level of dominance seen in other divisions like the NFC West or AFC North. This gives the Patriots an advantage as they avoid some of the league’s toughest competition.
Similarly, the New Orleans Saints find themselves in a favorable position with their 2023 schedule. Led by head coach Sean Payton and quarterback Jameis Winston, the Saints have consistently been a strong team in recent years. Their schedule for the upcoming season is also aligned in their favor, with several factors contributing to their perceived ease.
Firstly, the Saints, like the Patriots, benefit from their divisional alignment. The NFC South, which includes the Saints, features teams like the Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While the Buccaneers are reigning Super Bowl champions and present a formidable challenge, the other teams in the division have struggled to consistently perform at a high level. This gives the Saints an advantage in their divisional matchups.
Moreover, the Saints’ non-divisional opponents for 2023 also contribute to their relatively easier schedule. They are set to face teams from the AFC East and NFC East divisions. While both divisions have historically strong teams like the New England Patriots and Dallas Cowboys, they also have teams that have struggled in recent years, such as the New York Jets and Washington Football Team. This mix of competition allows the Saints to navigate through their schedule with a bit more ease compared to teams facing tougher opponents.
It is important to note that while the Patriots and Saints may have relatively easier schedules in 2023, this does not guarantee success. The NFL is known for its unpredictability, and any team can emerge victorious on any given Sunday. Factors such as injuries, team chemistry, and coaching strategies can heavily influence outcomes.
Nonetheless, having an easier schedule can provide teams with an advantage in terms of securing more wins and potentially securing a playoff spot. It allows teams to build momentum and confidence as they face opponents that may not pose as significant challenges.
As football fans eagerly await the start of the 2023 NFL season, it is clear that both the New England Patriots and New Orleans Saints have been handed schedules that seem to be in their favor. While nothing is set in stone, these teams have an opportunity to capitalize on their relatively easier paths and make a strong push towards success in the upcoming season.