The Rams’ 2022 schedule features some of the best games on the NFL calendar next season, which is both good news and bad news. The good news is that there should be a bunch of exciting games. The bad news is that the Rams have a tough path to the playoffs.
Now that we know the order of the Rams’ 17 games, we ranked each one from easiest to toughest, taking into account the location and timing of every contest on their schedule.
Week 2 vs. Falcons
The Falcons look poised to be one of the worst teams in the league next season after trading Matt Ryan to the Colts. Marcus Mariota is a decent replacement, but he has very few proven weapons around him and the defense hasn’t been good in years. The Rams benefit from the Falcons traveling across the country to play at SoFi Stadium, too. This will be a must-win game for Los Angeles against a significantly weaker opponent.
Week 6 vs. Panthers
Sam Darnold is on track to be Carolina’s starting quarterback again, which gives the Panthers little chance to make the playoffs. Sure, they’ll be getting Christian McCaffrey back and they have some good young talent (D.J. Moore, Brian Burns), but as a whole, the Panthers aren’t going to be contenders next season unless they get a miraculous season from their quarterback.
Week 13 vs. Seahawks
The Seahawks weren’t very good last season. Now they don’t have Bobby Wagner or Russell Wilson. Both games against Seattle will be favorable for Los Angeles, but especially the matchup at SoFi Stadium. The Rams shouldn’t have much trouble with the Drew Lock-led Seahawks at home next season.
Week 18 at Seahawks
Going up to Seattle to face the Seahawks used to be dreaded. But that trip hasn’t bothered the Rams much since Sean McVay took over, and it won’t in 2022, either. The Seahawks should finish last in the NFC West and could be in…