So all NFC North teams have now played 8 games, so as they move into the second half of the season let’s take a look at the next 4 games for each team. My projections for the second quarter games didn’t go so well for the Packers or Bears.
Midseason Standings
Vikings 7-1
Packers 4-4
Bears 4-5
Lions 1-7
Next Four Games
Vikings – DET, SEA, CHI, @AZ
Packers – DAL, SF, @DET, BAL
Bears – @SF (L), PHI, @MN, STL
Lions – @MN, CLE, GB, @CIN
Reality has set in for the Packers and Bears. The Packers have a terrible combination. While Rodgers is talented, he lacks the ability to read defenses quickly. So combine that with the fact that the O-line can’t block anyone longer than 4 seconds. And the Bears defense has slipped with age and injuries, plus Cutler is a joke. It will be interesting to see if either team can finish strong. I’m guessing they’ll need to have a 9-7 or better record to have any chance at playoffs.
Meanwhile, the Vikings have sort of sat back and watched their competition implode over the bye week. And now they’re entering a cake portion of the season. This team can still fall hard though. Maybe I’m purposely putting the blinders on but I just can’t see them maintaining the rest of the year.
Projected Standings After Q3
Vikings – 10-2
Packers – 6-6
Bears – 5-7
Lions – 2-10