NFC North Preview

The Packers had a wild, drama-filled offseason. But that all appears to be behind them as they gear up for what should be another division title. They have bigger goals than just that though, as they should. This offense should be elite once again, although the offensive line is a bit more concerning than in years past. The defense should be good enough. Aaron Rodgers showed what he’s still capable of last season after the Jordan Love drama. I expect more of the same this year.

The Vikings are always tough to figure out. They have a loaded roster, with an elite back and 2 top WRs. They have a very solid defense and defensive-minded head coach. And yet, I can say with a lot of certainty that they’ll get 8 to 10 wins and likely fall short of the playoffs. I think losing Irv Smith is actually a pretty significant loss for this team.

The Bears were very clearly undeserving of their playoff berth last season, but credit them for getting in. They bring back an above average defense, which is reason enough to make me not completely rule them out. But their offense should prove to hold them back, at least while Andy Dalton is back there. Once they switch to Justin Fields, likely following Week 1’s primetime game against Aaron Donald, Jalen Ramsey & co., they should improve, but not enough to get them into the playoffs.

Let’s see if there can be one thing written/spoken about the Lions without referencing biting kneecaps… Jokes aside, I like the direction the Lions are headed, just not for many wins this season. They should have an elite offensive line this year with a very good two-headed monster coming out of the backfield. TJ Hockenson is as good of a blocker as he is a receiver. This defense switching to a 3–4 is surprisingly talented on paper, particularly up front. It’ll be interesting (and important) to see if Jeff Okudah makes that 2nd year jump at corner. I love the coaching staff here (and they would DOMINATE any staff 7 on 7 games). The obvious problem for this team is they may have the worst WR unit in recent history. If they stay committed to ground and pound football, long drives leading to points, and can get some stops on defense, they can win some games. But the real optimism here is in the coming seasons.