Does the NFL Love or Hate the Rams?

This might sound like a lighthearted question, but when you glance at the Rams’ 2026 schedule, it certainly raises an eyebrow.

On one hand, the league is clearly showcasing the Rams, highlighted by their seven prime-time appearances. This indicates that those at the top see them as a significant franchise, one that fans want to watch.

And with the ever-charismatic Sean McVay leading the team, along with a roster packed with talent—let’s not forget quarterback Matthew Stafford fresh off an MVP season—it makes sense that the NFL is eager to feature them.

No doubt, the league enjoys displaying its star power.

It’s hard to deny the affection shown through such scheduling. Yet, paradoxically, it seems the NFL has also crafted one of the toughest schedules imaginable for the Rams.

I mean, whether it’s coincidence or a necessary consequence of being a top-tier team, the Rams will need to face some serious challenges if they want to secure control in the NFC West and a top playoff seed.

To do so, they’ll have to navigate an unusually intense slew of games: multiple showdowns on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and the usual Sunday slots. They’re even set to play on Thanksgiving Eve against the Packers and on Christmas night in Seattle against the Seahawks.

It might not be catastrophic, but in a sport where routine and structure are paramount, adjusting practices and preparations can be quite tricky.

McVay, known for not one to make excuses, will need all his creativity this season. And by the way, the tough road starts in Melbourne, Australia, against the 49ers—roughly 13,000 miles from home. Quite the trek, right? Of course, due to time zone differences, it translates to a Thursday game back in the U.S.

Upon their return to L.A., they face back-to-back away games against playoff teams from the previous year: the Broncos and the Eagles. Then, they head home to take on the Bills and another challenging playoff contender.

This stretch might be one of the most challenging series of games you could imagine in the NFL.

But that’s merely a prelude to the real trials that lie ahead. In fact, the Rams don’t get a bye week until Week 11, and immediately afterward, they’ll gear up for some exceptionally tough matchups.

The tough slate kicks off with a Thanksgiving Eve game against the Packers on Wednesday, then they’ll switch gears to face the Chiefs Thursday night, followed by clashes with the 49ers and the Cowboys.

Should they manage to stay afloat and still vie for a championship title, the final stretch offers two chances against the Seahawks.

But the follow-up after Thanksgiving kicks off with a Christmas night game in Seattle—shortly after a whirlwind week. Then, they’ll visit the Buccaneers before returning home to end the season against, you guessed it, the Seahawks.

The silver lining? The finale happens at SoFi Stadium, giving them home field advantage when facing the Seahawks. But after tackling this grueling 17-week gauntlet, will that really make a difference?