The New York Giants have a hellish schedule in 2023, facing opponents who won nearly 55 percent of their collective games in 2022.
There is more to a tough schedule than strength, though. There are other things to consider. In a new piece by Warren Sharp for Fox Sports, it’s clear that the imbalance of the schedule doesn’t stop there.
we need to focus closely on rest disparity this yr since imbalance is at historic highs
which teams benefit most?
which are challenged most?
let's dig in team-by-team
start by reading this for @NFLonFOX https://t.co/TVnV7w09bU
INTRODUCING: 2023 Net Rest Edges
🔖bookmark! pic.twitter.com/pkEqRw4r0S
— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) May 16, 2023
According to Sharp, the Giants are one of five teams — along with the Chiefs, 49ers, Eagles and Vikings — who are at great disadvantages in the following categories:
- Net rest edges
- Less rest than opponent
- Opponent’s days to prepare for the game
- Short-week road games
- Games after a road Sunday night or Monday night contest
- Negated bye weeks
For example, in the “net rest” category:
The Giants play the Patriots in Week 12. The Giants played the Commanders in Week 11. But the Patriots have a bye in Week 11, and are off an extra week of rest. Therefore, the Patriots have seven days of extra rest compared to the Giants. Accordingly, in Week 12, the Patriots have a rest edge of +7 while the Giants have a rest edge of -7. Sum these edges up over the course of the season, and you get a team’s net rest edge for the season.
Just one of the many disadvantages the Giants face in 2023.
If the Giants are to succeed in returning to the playoffs this season, they are going to have to overcome more than just their opponents and the elements. The schedule is a huge hurdle as well.
