The NFL schedule was released tonight. I know that the league is masterful at making their league the story year around, but this seems to have been more of an event this year than I remember it being in the past. There’s only so much intrigue that can come from the schedule since you can figure out who is playing who every year with just a bit of work if you want to. Still, the timing of games and the location can make them somewhat interesting. Here’s a look at six games that stick out for me at first glance:

Week 1 – Chicago at Green Bay – All eyes will be on Jay Cutler. He cost a fortune, and there will be little patience from fans waiting to see him play like it.

Week 2 – Giants at Dallas – This the opener for the new Dallas stadium. It’s also a showdown between two rivals who should both be competitive, and who both really, really hate each other. There should be all sorts of spectacle, and a heck of a game besides.

Week 3 – Indianapolis at Arizona – The Cardinals will be out to prove that last year wasn’t a fluke and that they are a legitimate and established contender. Beating Peyton Manning at home would be a good way to start proving that.

Week 5 – New England at Denver – This one writes itself – Tom Brady comes back and faces his old offensive coordinator. That coordinator, now a ridiculously young head coach, had a rough offseason and has a lot to prove. It’s like theater with helmets.

Week 8 – St. Louis at Detroit – I have very low expectations for both of these teams again this year, so this one should be like a living train wreck.

Week 12 – Pittsburgh at Baltimore – This is my favorite rivalry in the game right now. These teams don’t like each other at all, and they both have the same philosophy – pound the opposition into submission. Joe Flacco should take a step forward this year, making the contests even more competitive.