Determining the difficulty of an NFL team’s upcoming season involves analyzing the combined winning percentage of their opponents from the previous year. A higher combined winning percentage generally indicates a more challenging slate of games. Factors such as playing against teams with strong quarterbacks, formidable defenses, or consistently successful franchises contribute to the perceived difficulty. For example, if a team faces multiple opponents who reached the playoffs or boast top-ranked offenses, their schedule is likely considered demanding.
The importance of evaluating schedule difficulty lies in its impact on projected team performance and playoff chances. Teams facing a more rigorous schedule may encounter greater difficulty securing wins, potentially affecting their overall record and postseason aspirations. Historically, teams with demonstrably difficult schedules have often struggled to maintain consistent success, highlighting the significant role schedule strength plays in shaping a team’s season.
