5 Things We Learned About the Miami Dolphins' 2012 NFL Schedule

Like every team, the Miami Dolphins already knew which teams would be on their schedule in 2012. 

But now they know when they play each team and at what time.

With only one prime-time game this season, the Dolphins have clearly fallen out of the national spotlight. That much was evident before the schedule release.

But what did we learn from the announcement of the schedule?

1. Out of the Frying Pan, Into the Fire

Week 1 on the road against the Houston Texans doesn't sound like a very enticing way to start the season, does it?

The Texans will be a trendy pick to win the AFC and get to the Super Bowl this year, so the Dolphins will have their hands full right out of the gate. 

2. Easy Does It

Take comfort, Dolphins fans, in knowing that it gets easier after Week 1.

The Dolphins have some tough opponents in their first six games, but they play a lot of winnable games (vs. Raiders, at Cardinals, at Bengals, vs. Rams).

3. Road Haul Out of the Bye

Three out of the Dolphins' four games coming out of the bye are on the road, and two of those road games are against division opponents.

The fourth and final game in this stretch, against the Bills, comes on NFL Network's Thursday Night Football and thus on a short week.

At least they'll be rested up.

4. Long Week to Rest Headed into Six-Game Stretch Run

The advantage of a Thursday night game is a long week to rest and prepare following it.

That gives them extra time to prepare for a two-game home stand against the Seahawks and Patriots.

Which brings me to my last observation.

5. Saving the Best For Last

The Dolphins got off to a tough start in 2011 with a home loss against the Patriots. This year, that rude awakening won't arrive at SunLife Stadium until Week 13.

The Patriots classically have struggled on the road against the Dolphins, which gives the Dolphins a slight psychological advantage in the second meeting if they're able to pick up a win in the first.

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