2012 NFL Schedule: Early Look at Games That Will Decide Division Titles

Even though the final few pieces of confetti still haven't been cleaned off the New York City streets following the Giants' Super Bowl victory, it's already time to start looking ahead to next season. Further proof the NFL season never truly ends.

The NFL announced that the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys will kick off next season on Sept. 5, with the rest of the schedule to be released at a later date. Let's take an early look at games that will ultimately decide a few division titles.

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens

The Steelers and Ravens have developed a deep-rooted dislike for each other after all of their hard-hitting battles, which makes every game between the rivals a must-see event. Next season looks like it will be more of the same.

Both teams will once again lean heavily on their defenses to lead the way. They each ranked inside the top three in yards allowed and will return most of the main contributors on that side of the ball. So look for a couple more low-scoring clashes.

Baltimore was able to pull it out last season despite poor play from Joe Flacco. I think he'll rebound in 2012, leading to another sweep and division crown for the Ravens.

New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills

New England has dominated Buffalo for the better part of a decade, which is a major reason the Bills are suffering through an extended playoff drought. They won't be a pushover next season, however, after major upgrades to the defensive line.

Making life tough on Tom Brady remains the only way to dethrone the Patriots in the AFC East. Adding Mario Williams and Mark Anderson to go along with a dominant tackle duo like Marcell Dareus and Kyle Williams gives Buffalo a chance to do just that.

The Patriots are still expected to come out on top, and rightfully so, but they can't sleep on the Bills. They're going to make some noise for the first time in a long time. Look for a season series split with New England winning the division.

New York Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles

The Giants were looking like playoff outsiders before making their shocking Super Bowl run. If the Eagles would have lived up to the hype, they could have stormed away with the division, but they struggled early and it led to another title for New York.

Philadelphia did show signs of becoming an elite team late in the year, which gives them hope of a strong bounce-back season. That said, the Giants aren't going to let them run away with anything. It will be a close race throughout.

Michael Vick's health is probably going to decide the race. If he stays in the lineup all season, I think the Eagles will sweep the series and claim the division. If he misses one of the games against the Giants, New York comes out on top.