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Previewing the NFC North

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Sonja Greenfield, Senior NFL Reporter NFC North, NFC East

By Sonja Greenfield //@Mom23RN

Welcome back to football, Team.  We made it!  And not a moment too soon!

Let’s preview how the NFC North could look this season.

I’m going to preface this by saying, pretty much when Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers said he was coming back, the division got a little less interesting. Because at the end of the day, the Packers are still the Packers and are the team to beat in the north. But that’s the way it is so…to the preview!

Chicago Bears

Rookie quarterback, Justin Fields, is going to be the biggest factor for this team.  Well, maybe not just Fields. It’s going to come down to what coach Nagy decides to do with him. (Hence the What Will Nagy Do hashtag from my previous article)  Then comes the defense. What Chicago is known for. They’ve got a new defensive coordinator in Sean Desai, and he had the defense looking pretty good in their first preseason game. This could be a pretty good season for the Bears if their defense can deliver and they get good quarterback play.  The two bigger questions are going to be the offensive line and receivers.   It could be a good season for the Monsters of the Midway.

Detroit Lions

A new year, a new coaching staff, and a new quarterback.  I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again,  I’m concerned about how the coaching is going to go this year. We saw over the last 3 years a team that was stifled by former coach Matt Patricia. The Lions are doing some things with the offensive line. It looks to be pretty shiny and good, which will help Jared Goff stay upright.

But there is also the issue of receivers as well.  And run game. And defense. While I’m hoping for a decent year (right around 6 or so wins), but understand that this team has had a massive overhaul in coaching philosophy, coaching staff, and players. It’s going to take some adjustment.  So, let’s grow with this team!

Minnesota Vikings

This team is always one to keep an eye on. Running back Dalvin Cook, wide receivers Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen, and a revamped defense that includes veteran cornerback, Patrick Peterson, you can’t sleep on this team. And while their quarterback Kirk Cousins hasn’t been exactly “lights out” lately, he’s done enough to get this team to the playoffs.

Their offensive line was tinkered with, but and their defense could be something pretty sweet. (Despite their play in their first preseason game.)  A weakness? Their offensive line. Plus, their first-round pick just had core muscle surgery. It’s been a little shaky the past few years, but other than that, they’re poised to be pretty decent.

Green Bay Packers

Last but far from least, the Green Bay Packers. After a bunch of offseason drama caused by QB Aaron Rodgers, Rodgers is back, and so is one of his favorites in WR Randall Cobb. Essentially, last season’s high-flying offense is back with reinforcements. Teams in this division can give the Packers a run for their money, but until proven otherwise, the division goes to the Packers (and yes, it pains the Lions fan in me to write that), but I’m being honest.

Agree or disagree with Sonja?

Let her know on Twitter @Mom23RN

#SmartWomen #SmartFootball

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