The world is never an easy place for most people. Life throws all kinds of curveballs that can either be managed by yourself or it can cause major failure. The Buffalo Bills got thrown with a major curveball when it comes to the schedule. They head into the 2018 season with the 18th toughest schedule out of all 32 teams. Last season, the Bills were in the top ten when it came to tough schedules, but some would argue that this schedule looks many times tougher.
With having to play the New England Patriots, Miami Dolphins and New York Jets twice a year, they will also go up against the NFC North division and AFC South division. They will also take on the Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Chargers. Arguably a much harder schedule than last season.
In the first four weeks, the Bills will have some serious competition on their hands.
Week 1: @ Baltimore Ravens
First off, it’s never playing as the visiting team no matter who you face. The last time these two teams squared off was in 2016, same week and same location. The Bills fell short and lost 13-7 to the Ravens. That Bills team was under Rex Ryan, in which there was lack of discipline and opportunities were not seized.
Under Sean McDermott, the Bills are disciplined. A new quarterback will be under center for the first time in three years. Even though the Ravens have always been a physical team, the Bills defense, led by their dangerous secondary can easily have a field day with Joe Flacco. A big matter is whether or not the Bills can get six, not three or no points on the board. This game may very well be a replay of 2016, but with a different outcome.
Record: 1-0
Week 2: Los Angeles Chargers
Home opening game, and against the team that picked off Nathan Peterman five times in one half last season. The Chargers have a powerful offense and have arguably the best pass rushers in the game. If the Bills cannot make the big plays, the Chargers will more than likely take this game with little problems.
Record: 1-1
Week 3: @ Minnesota Vikings
The Bills will travel to take on new Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins and his team. The $84 million dollar man comes into a better situation with the Vikings. An upgrade in the running game, valuable receivers and one of the best defenses’ in the league. This team looks scary good.
The Bills are in for their biggest challenge so far. In a tense Minnesota atmosphere, the Bills are more than likely to have major struggles. Whoever is at quarterback for the Bills will face all three different levels of the Vikings defense, in which they are all dangerous. The Bills fall to the Vikings in this one.
Record: 1-2
Week 4: @ Green Bay Packers
After losing two straight, the Bills stay up north and will take on a healthy Aaron Rodgers and the Packers. In 2014, the Bills pulled the upset against the Packers that almost helped them get into the playoffs. The Packers will get Rogers back, but if the Bills secondary can play lockdown, Rodgers could very well struggle.
Rodgers turns his weapons on the outside into playmakers, but there is still the lack of a running game and the defense still needs major improvement. Even though the game is in Green Bay, this could be an upset for the week for the Bills.
Record: 2-2
Brandon Ray is a Managing Editor for Full Press Coverage and covers the NFL and the Buffalo Bills. Follow him on Twitter at @brandon_ray79 and @FPC_Bills for Bills coverage.
