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Yesterday the NFL released the 2018 schedule. Many people have looked at their team's schedule to see if it's easy or hard based on opponents, game locations, and rest time. I've looked at all of the schedules in regards to a measurable advantage.
In December of 2016, I researched how time zones affect NFL outcomes of night games. I concluded that there is a definite advantage to being 2 time zones behind your opponent, even more so if you get to host the game.
2006-2016 RESULTS
If we include last year's data into the mix the advantage for a western team hosting Sunday night (65%) or Monday night (70%) drops while Thursday night remains perfect.
So who are this year's winners and losers when it comes to time zone effect?
Seahawks- Somehow the Seahawks are playing 4 night games against teams from the central time zone. Of these 4 games, 3 will be at CenturyLink Field. Since 2006 Seattle is 12-2 when hosting these advantageous night games. Last year they suffered their first advantageous Monday night game when they lost 31-34 to the Falcons after trying a fake field goal going into the half. So who gets to go to Seattle and try to fight fate? The Vikings, Packers and Chiefs are the chosen ones.
Rams- After dominating the offseason so far, the Rams have gotten a hookup from the scheduling committee. In their second recent season working out of the Pacific time zone, the Rams host 3 prime time games against teams from the Eastern and Central time zones. Once again the Chiefs and Vikings get to do the honors. The third team heading west will be the Eagles.
Chiefs- Besides getting to play the Rams and Seahawks, the Chiefs also get to play host to the Chargers on Thursday Night Football. While getting to host this game may seem beneficial, keep in mind western teams are 10-2 during Thursday Night Football. Sorry Chiefs, you are the night game loser.
Seahawks- Somehow the Seahawks are playing 4 night games against teams from the central time zone. Of these 4 games, 3 will be at CenturyLink Field. Since 2006 Seattle is 12-2 when hosting these advantageous night games. Last year they suffered their first advantageous Monday night game when they lost 31-34 to the Falcons after trying a fake field goal going into the half. So who gets to go to Seattle and try to fight fate? The Vikings, Packers and Chiefs are the chosen ones.
Rams- After dominating the offseason so far, the Rams have gotten a hookup from the scheduling committee. In their second recent season working out of the Pacific time zone, the Rams host 3 prime time games against teams from the Eastern and Central time zones. Once again the Chiefs and Vikings get to do the honors. The third team heading west will be the Eagles.
Chiefs- Besides getting to play the Rams and Seahawks, the Chiefs also get to play host to the Chargers on Thursday Night Football. While getting to host this game may seem beneficial, keep in mind western teams are 10-2 during Thursday Night Football. Sorry Chiefs, you are the night game loser.
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