Today, as Halloween nears, we rank the teams with the most daunting remaining schedules in the NFL. Determining the candidates involved a couple of requirements:
- They must be within two games of a wild-card berth as they enter Week 9.
- They have to face one of the toughest upcoming schedules.
For instance, while the Arizona Cardinals show a challenging schedule, they did not make the cut due to not being in the playoff race.
1. Texans (3-4)
The Texans have seen some success recently, winning three out of their last four games, bringing them back into playoff contention after a rough 0-3 start. However, anticipation for the playoffs should be tempered due to the extremely challenging remaining schedule, featuring six matches against teams with at least five wins. This includes games against the Broncos, Bills, and Chiefs among others.
Remaining strength of schedule: .579
Games remaining against teams above .500: 7
Predicted final record: 8-9
2. Chiefs (5-3)
The Chiefs are tied for second place in terms of schedule difficulty, primarily due to a punishing stretch in November that features away games against several strong teams including the Bills and Cowboys. Despite this tough path, their history suggests they remain strong playoff contenders.
Remaining strength of schedule: .558
Games remaining against teams above .500: 5
Predicted final record: 12-5
3. Commanders (3-5)
Commanders fans have reasons to be concerned. Having reached the NFC title game last season, they now face a daunting final stretch, with five matchups against teams that are currently 5-2 or stronger.
Remaining strength of schedule: .558
Games remaining against teams above .500: 5
Predicted final record: 7-10
4. Vikings (3-4)
After a remarkable 14-3 performance last season, the Vikings are struggling significantly this year, substantially due to their quarterback situation. Their remaining fixtures include two challenging games against divisional rivals.
Remaining strength of schedule: .555
Games remaining against teams above .500: 6
Predicted final record: 6-11
5. Colts (7-1)
Despite boasting the best record in the league heading into Week 9, the Colts have a treacherous schedule ahead, playing against teams with strong winning records in the coming weeks.
Remaining strength of schedule: .554
Games remaining against teams above .500: 6
Predicted final record: 13-4
As the Texans lead the way into the stretch, the New England Patriots hold the most favorable schedule with a remaining strength of .362.
