Bears have second easiest strength of schedule in 2016

In an offseason so far defined by disappointment, here’s one reason for optimism for Bears fans.

Based on 2015 winning percentages, Chicago will have the second-easiest schedule of all NFL teams next season.

The Bears’ 2016 opponents had a combined 2015 winning percentage of .461. Only Green Bay’s opponents (.457) had a worse record in 2015.

Chicago, Green Bay and Detroit each rank among the easiest schedules next season, thanks in part to games against both the NFC East and AFC South – by far football’s two weakest divisions last year.

Outside of the NFC North, the only 2015 playoff teams the Bears will face in 2016 are Houston and Washington – who combined to lose 14 games last year.

Though, a schedule perceived to be easy prior to the season doesn’t always lead to wins.

The five teams that came into last season with the weakest strength of schedules – Atlanta, Indianapolis, Houston, Tampa Bay and New Orleans – finished a combined 38-42.

The toughest strength of schedule entering the season belongs to San Francisco, whose opponents combined to go 142-114 in 2015.

Check out the complete rankings here.

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