NFL schedule release 2014: Five hardest schedules

With the 2014 NFL regular season being released on Wednesday night, a quick look at strength of schedule lets us know who will have the hardest road throughout the regular season this year.

Unfortunately for the Oakland Raiders, who are one of the least talented teams in the NFL, they have the toughest road ahead of them. That means the Black Hole could be in for another long and disappointing year.

The Denver Broncos, who were blown out in the Super Bowl earlier this year, have the second most difficult schedule, but they have the talent to overcome the difficult road.

Who joins Oakland and Denver with the toughest schedules this year?

Here are the five hardest schedules for the 2014 NFL regular season, according to the strength of schedule:

NOTE: Strength of schedule is determined by the combined 2013 record of all 16 opponents.

1. Oakland Raiders, opponents 2013 record: 148-108 (.578)
2. Denver Broncos, opponents 2013 record: 146-110 (.570)
3. St. Louis Rams, opponents 2013 record: 144-111-1 (.564)
4 (T). San Diego Chargers, opponents 2013 record: 144-112 (.563)
4 (T). San Francisco 49ers, opponents 2013 record: 144-112 (.563)

Will having the hardest schedule in the NFL this season hurt the chances of the Broncos, Chargers or 49ers returning to the playoffs? Sound off in the comments section below with your thoughts and predictions.