The NFL released the Indianapolis Colts' 2023 schedule earlier this month, and there was a lot to takeaway from it. For instance, the Colts open the slate with multiple divisional games in the first month.

Meaning that the team almost has to get off to a fast start in order to contend in what should be a competitive AFC South. Fortunately, the Colts – on paper – have one of the easiest schedules across the entire league.

But that's not the only advantage that the Colts could have when football kicks off in the fall. Because Indianapolis will have some additional rest compared to its opponents throughout the year.

According to Warren Sharp's data, "the Colts were helped the most by the schedule" in regards to rest and preparation. Indianapolis edged out both the Washington Commanders and Cleveland Browns, per Sharp.

Which can be very important for the Colts. Especially under a first-year head coach in Shane Steichen and a rookie quarterback in Anthony Richardson. These are the kind of things that can potentially swing momentum in Indianapolis' favor.

"The Colts were helped the most by the 2023 NFL schedule when considering every rest and prep variable," wrote Warren Sharp. "Increasingly, the NFL schedule has created haves and have-nots when it comes to rest and prep time, and those differences affect the outcome on the field."

Obviously, this does not mean anything if the Indianapolis Colts do no go out and win games when the season begins. With that said, the opportunity is there for Steichen and the team to take advantage.