As always, Detroit Lion fans have high expectations for next season, and this time for good reason. In the NFL coaches do not typically get fired after going nine and seven, but that is what happened to Detroit Lions Jim Caldwell. A move that the fan base seemed to be supportive of, simply because expectations have risen with quarterback Matthew Stafford in his prime. So naturally, incoming coach Matt Patricia has some lofty, yet achievable expectations.
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Unfortunately, I have some bad news for Matt Patricia, the Detroit Lions, and all their deprived fans. CBS Sports just released their rankings for the NFL strength of schedule next year and Detriot comes in near the top. The one list you do not want to be on top of in the NFL, and the Lions are tied for second.
The Lions can partially thank their tough division for their second toughest strength of schedule. Having to play Aaron Rodgers and the cheeseheads as well as the defensive juggernaut Minnesota Vikings twice a year will make things difficult to win the division. For that reason, everyone in the NFC North makes an appearance in the top ten. Minnesota and Chicago are tied for eighth, while Green Bay gets the not so coveted number one spot.
Fortunately, the toughest games out of conference will be played at Ford Field, where the Lions will host the Carolina Panthers, New England Patriots, Los Angeles Rams, and the Seattle Seahawks. The Lions 2018 opponents have a combined 2017 record of 137 and 119.
Despite a tough schedule, the Detroit Lions and their new head coach will be expected to make the playoffs this upcoming year. No, it won’t be easy but very little things come easy in the NFL and Lions fans know that better than anyone.
The most important thing will be beating the teams you are expected to beat (something Caldwell did extremely well, until the Cincinnati game), and collecting a few tough, unexpected victories at home.
The Lions full schedule can be seen here at fbschedules.com.
