This is the team against which you will have 2 TV games. It doesn't imply anything about performance.
Does it imply anything else other than you will have 2 TV games against?edit: and why don't I see it?
i think that "rival" shows team that are comparable to your own, maybe a bit stronger, maybe a bit weaker. one goal of the season - to win that team (of course fans should be very happy about that).i houpe you understand what i am trying to say
You know what? 7 teams in my conference has the same rival - my team ;) I think it's something like "beat the champion"