The 2006 Opponents list was released today.

In the old days, a team that finished in the top 3 draft pick positions got a super-simple schedule the next year. When the league expanded to 32 teams and realigned, the scheduling became more predictable and formulaic. It also took away some of the “leveling the playfield” aspect that help cause some parity. Looking at next year’s opponents, it looks like the old days are back, at least for the Packers.

Outside the division, there are only 2 teams with current winning records, the 2005 season Superbowl loser Seattle Seahawks (10-2) and the fading fast New England Patriots (7-5). Of the others, the Philadelphia Eagles (5-7) will certainly be tough next year when healthy and the Miami Dolphins (5-7) are a team to watch.

Depending on the details of the schedule, it looks like the 2006 Packers have a chance to make us forget the 2005 version. Of course, the other teams can turn it around really fast, see the 2005 Chicago Bears. A good draft, maybe a few choice free agents and bingo, you got a contender. The Packers will be looking to be the team that most improves, but so will most of the teams on the opponents list. I am sure their fans are salivating over seeing a 2-10 Packer team, perhaps without Brett Favre for the first time in a very long time.

I am having “Forrest Gregg” flashbacks: “Just wait till next year!” and “Just beat the Bears!”. [shiver]

Sigh

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