The Lions had one of the toughest schedules in the NFL this past season, but things look a bit easier in 2016, at least on paper.
Detroit played eight games this season against teams that qualified for the playoffs (including two each vs. Green Bay and Minnesota).
View photos of the last time Detroit played its 2016 opponents.
Next year the Lions play their division opponents, obviously, but draw the four teams in the NFC East and AFC South, the two weakest divisions in football in 2015.
Only one team in each of those divisions has a chance to finish 2015 with a winning record.
The Lions will also face St. Louis from the NFC West and New Orleans from the NFC South. The Rams and Saints finished third in their division, along with the Lions.
Here's a look at next year's opponents:
Home opponents: Chicago, Green Bay, Minnesota, Philadelphia, Washington, Jacksonville, Tennessee, St. Louis
Away opponents: Chicago, Green Bay, Minnesota, Dallas, New York Giants, Houston, Indianapolis, New Orleans
The NFL schedule with dates and times will be released in April.
