Five NFL contenders with easiest paths to playoffs: Lions, Ravens poised to return to postseason
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- Detroit Lions face opponents that posted the sixth‑worst winning percentage in 2025, giving them a favorable schedule.
- Detroit Lions have two three‑week stretches (Weeks 3‑5 and 13‑15) against teams expected to finish with losing records.
- New Orleans Saints have the NFL's second‑easiest schedule based on 2025 win totals.
- New Orleans Saints benefit from a division where none of the other NFC South teams posted a winning record in 2025, and those rivals face tougher schedules (average strength No. 20).
- New Orleans Saints open the season with two difficult games against the Lions and Ravens in Weeks 1‑2.
Why it matters: The Lions and Saints stand to capitalize on weaker opponents, boosting their playoff odds, while stronger teams with tougher schedules risk missing the postseason, affecting fan revenue and betting markets.
