2012 NFL Schedule: Biggest Candidates for Flex Scheduling

The NFL schedule release is merely one part of the story, with flex scheduling offering a wealth of possibilities for teams to play their way into the spotlight, and we have an idea of who those might be. 

Teams get their chance to shine after a half-season of stout football is played. For those uninitiated, you can take a look at the specifics of how the NFL treats flex scheduling at their official site. 

Here is our chance to target the mediocre teams from last season, and prove just how much they have grown in the last season. 

By Week 11, we will actually want to see these teams on prime-time slots because the playoff implications will actually be tremendous. 

Here are some breakout teams to watch this season. 

1. St. Louis Rams

Last year was a lesson in humility for the Rams that were supposed to run away with the division. A year under Sam Bradford's belt and a weak NFC West meant playoff glory. Not so much. 

The team suffered early injuries which resulted into a stagnant winter, but things are about to change. The Rams will have No. 6 pick that will result in the talent they need on offense, hopefully Justin Blackmon. 

Add to that a schedule that isn't terrifying to look at, and you have yourself a team that will actually matter by season's end. 

2. Washington Redskins

The Redskins will be just fine on defense, but it's the offense that has worried many for the past couple of seasons. 

That ends now with Washington pulling off a coup and nabbing one of the top two quarterbacks in the draft. 

Of course, it should be noted that the pick will most likely be Robert Griffin III, a player that will still need work at the next level. I still see him as an upgrade, no matter how inexperienced he will be. 

Look to the success Cam Newton had last season, and envision what a modicum of that success would do for Washington's squad. 

3. Carolina Panthers

Speaking of Newton, I am convinced that just a bit of tweaking and some crafty drafting will warrant great hope for this squad that was far better than we expected in 2011. 

An improved defense and a year under Cam Newton's belt means a team that won six games with a rookie under center is about to improve mightily. 

The top of the NFC South isn't as ridiculous as once thought. 

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