NFL schedule makers did Seahawks-Rams rivalry no favors in 2026

TL;DR

The NFL's 2026 schedule poorly times key matchups, notably cramming the Seahawks-Rams games into the final weeks. This decision, along with other questionable matchups, raises concerns about showcasing important rivalries effectively.

Key points

Seahawks-Rams games scheduled in the final weeks of the season
NFL criticized for timing of high-profile matchups
Bills and Chiefs playing on Thanksgiving night
Controversial scheduling decisions for other key games
Concerns about fan engagement for important rivalries

Seattle SeahawksLos Angeles RamsBuffalo BillsKansas City Chiefs

Football: NFC Championship: Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald and Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay greet each other at midfield following game at Lumen Field. Seattle, WA 1/25/2026CREDIT: Simon Bruty (Photo by Simon Bruty/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (Set Number: X164832 TK1) Fans will be getting a healthy dose of the Los Angeles Rams in 2026, but the NFL completely whiffed on the timing of several high-profile matchups. Cramming both Rams-Seahawks games into two of the final three weeks was only the beginning of the league’s scheduling chaos this season. The NFL lost its mind not only waiting to schedule the first Rams-Seahawks game in Week 16, but also making L.A. visit Seattle on a short week. These teams played in a pair of thrillers in the Emerald City — games that were decided by five points, mind you — and this is how you plan to showcase a matchup featuring the NFC’s top squads? Forget the prestige of playing on Christmas; this is a game that deserves to be played on a normal week, either on Sunday or Monday night. That’s far from the only questionable decision the scheduling gurus made. Tell me why the Bills and Chiefs are playing on Thanksgiving night? Buffalo will enter that game on a short week after traveling to Miami, while the Chiefs will similarly be playing on a few days’ rest following a home date with the Cardinals. Thanksgiving shouldn’t feature the most exciting games, because they’re mostly background noise to lull you to sleep once the tryptophan kicks in. Now the NFL’s telling us we have to power through our food comas to watch what is expected to be another thriller between two of the AFC’s best. Seriously? There are several gripes I have about other matchups, and those grievances will be aired as follows:

Q&A

Why are the Seahawks and Rams playing their games so late in the 2026 NFL season?

The NFL scheduled the first Rams-Seahawks game in Week 16, which is seen as a poor decision given the rivalry's significance.

What are some other controversial matchups in the 2026 NFL schedule?

Other questionable matchups include the Bills playing on Thanksgiving night and the Broncos facing the Seahawks on Thursday Night Football.

How does the NFL's scheduling affect fan engagement for key games?

By placing major rivalries on short weeks or holidays, the NFL risks diminishing fan engagement and excitement for these crucial matchups.

NFL schedule makers did Seahawks-Rams rivalry no favors in 2026

TL;DR

Key points

Q&A

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