Im not really looking at it from a Bills perspective but rather as a Jets fan. When the season's over Jets fans arent going to remember that they faced a cupcake schedule. Theyre going to remember that they finished 10-6. As a fan, bringing back the same roster and adding Forte, many in the fanbase were thinking a playoff run was in the cards.
There are several factors unrelated to Bowles that have contributed to the Jets horrible season and the main one being Fitz has not been able to come close to replicating last season's success. According to Jets fans on their forum, several defensive players (Wilkerson in particular) have pulled a Mario Williams and have put in zero effort as well.
And of course, yes, the schedule is also a factor.