2012 NFL Schedule: Marquee Matchups Diehard Fans Must See

It may be the NFL offseason, but it's never too early to get pumped up for the upcoming season.

The complete schedules haven't been released yet, but we do know who will be playing who, so there is still plenty to talk about. 

While we don't know the dates, we know that there's going to be a great slate of football for fans to enjoy each Sunday.

That being said, here are a few games that fans need to see in person in 2012. 

Broncos vs. Patriots 

This is easily the most anticipated game of the 2012 season. The Broncos have a lot of hype building around them thanks to their offseason moves, and everyone is going to want to watch this new-look Denver team take on the the best team in the AFC. 

It was already a must-see game, because it was a rematch of Tim Tebow vs. Tom Brady, but since Denver upgraded at QB with Peyton Manning, this game got a whole lot more intriguing. 

Seeing Manning and Brady go head-to-head is always great, but now that the former No. 1 overall pick is playing for the Broncos, the level of excitement for the annual meeting between these two top QBs has increased tenfold. 

It will be very interesting to see where in the year this game gets scheduled. 

Ravens vs. Steelers 

They play each other twice each year, so there are plenty of times to see these two rivals duke it out. 

However, with Baltimore sweeping Pittsburgh last year, the Steelers are going to come out strong with great intensity, and that is something you don't want to miss. 

What's more, both squads have aging stars, meaning now is the time to see them before they call it a career. Of course, nobody knows when these veterans will retire, but it's best to see them in action now while they're still producing at a high level.

The Steelers and the Ravens always give fans an exciting game, so make sure you hit the road to catch them in 2012. 

49ers vs. Saints 

A rematch of the NFC divisional round playoff matchup that was arguably the best game of the postseason. 

It's a top offense versus a top defense; not much else could be better. With the Saints suffering from the aftermath of "Bountygate," they're definitely a team to watch in 2012. 

San Francisco was one win away from the Super Bowl, and after boosting the offense this offseason, teams around the league need to take the 49ers more seriously. 

The game came down to the wire the last time they met. Fans shouldn't expect anything less when the 49ers and Saints do battle in 2012, which is why it's a must-see game. 

Panthers vs. Redskins 

Before you shake your head in disbelief and bash me in the comment section or bolt, hear me out. 

Washington has the No. 2 pick in the draft, and with it, they're highly likely to select Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III. 

That means you'll get to watch RG3 and Cam Newton go head-to-head, and it's a given that it will be a very exciting game. Neither team has a stellar defense, so fans can expect both quarterbacks to make spectacular plays with both their arms and their legs. 

Both QBs have a bright future ahead of them, and they're going to try to out-duel each other, which will be loads of fun to watch.