We are in the final stages of the NFL season with still a lot to decide. An astonishing nine teams are still in legitimate playoff contention in the NFC with just four weeks to play. The Full Press team editors for the NFC North sat down to discuss their reactions to the season thus far and their expectations for the quarter pole.
With four weeks left, how do you think the division will shape?
Tyler Kading, Bears: The only real question wth the standings comes in with the second and third spots, as the Vikings are virtually clinched into the top and, likewise, the Bears at the bottom. I think it is highly likely those two spots come down to the last week of the season, as the Packers and Lions face each other. Since I doubt that the Packers will still be in playoff contention, I would be surprised if the Packers risk
Aaron Rodgers coming off a shoulder injury, and thus, the Lions take home the victory and the second-place finish.
Matt Urben, Lions: With four weeks left, it is pretty obvious Minnesota has this thing locked up. They have been the best team in the division all the way through the season and I do not see them slowing down over the final quarter of the season.
Jake Schyvinck, Packers: Right now, the Vikings are the class of this division and it is easy to see why.
Case Keenum is having his best season as a pro and the defense does not really have a weakness. I see the Vikings finishing around 12-4 and possibly locking up the first seed in the NFC. As for the Lions and Packers, they both need to win out and have some help on the way. The Lions have an easier schedule, but it probably will not be enough. If the Packers win at Cleveland, Rodgers likely returns. But even Rodgers may not be able to navigate this team through three tough games. The Lions and Packers will likely finish around 9-7 and miss the playoffs. The Bears, obviously, are looking forward to building around Trubisky in the draft.
Sam Smith, Vikings: Minnesota has the top spot sewn up and Chicago is clearly whatever the opposite of the class of the division is. What happens in between is going to be fascinating as the Lions and the Packers, against all odds, are still in playoff contention. I do not see either team making the postseason but, despite the tougher schedule down the stretch, I would lean the Packers’ way for NFC North runner-up. Though it may not be advised, Rodgers will return week 15 and win out, but fall just shy of the postseason.
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