NFC North Rundown: Mitchell Trubisky’s ground attack wills Chicago to third consecutive win

Another week, another less-than-pretty win for the Green Bay Packers as they held off the Washington Redskins, 20-15, at home last Sunday. Although they are 10-3, just how good are the Packers as they begin their final three games? Maybe the better question is just how good is Aaron Rodgers and APC’s Peter Bukowski detailed the good and bad from his latest performance earlier this week.

Around the NFC North, another quarterback is still looking to find his groove in Mitchell Trubisky. Fortunately for Chicago, the Bears’ signal caller was able to impact the game in a big way as a rusher. The ground presence of Trubisky has been an element missing from the Bears’ offense this season, but figures to be more utilized down the stretch as Chicago continues to claw its way back into the playoff hunt.

Some details on their postseason chances, as well as a glance at the Minnesota Vikings’ playoff scenarios and halftime hot air balloon disaster of 50 years ago in today’s rundown.

Detroit Lions (3-9-1)

Lost 20-7 at Minnesota; Next vs. Tampa Bay

Detroit Lions stock watch: Tracy Walker has career game, Kenny Golladay hits 1,000 yards

In a season trending in the wrong direction, the Lions did have a few bright spots against the Vikings, including some from a high-priced free agent acquisition.

Chris Spielman: Detroit Lions should be patient, give Bob Quinn, Matt Patricia another year

The former Lion claims Detroit made the decision to rebuild and should give Patricia a full opportunity to right the ship as a result.

Injury bug bites Lions again as receiver Marvin Jones placed on injured reserve

Already without Matthew Stafford, the Lions lost another offensive cog on Sunday - this one for the season.

Minnesota Vikings (9-4)

Won 20-7 vs. Detroit; Next at Los Angeles Chargers

Minnesota Vikings 20, Detroit Lions 7: Minnesota inches closer to postseason

It wasn’t pretty, but the Vikings rode a 17-0 halftime lead to the finish line to keep pace in the NFC North.

Vikings scenarios: From first-round bye to playing Packers to missing the playoffs

Here is an in-depth look at each record scenario for how Minnesota could finish out the season and the playoff implications of each.

‘I Was In Shock’: Vikings Halftime Hot Air Balloon Disaster Recounted 50 Years Later

Outside the realm of on-field action, here is a look back at one of the biggest halftime disasters the sport has had.

Chicago Bears (7-6)

Won 31-24 vs. Dallas; Next at Green Bay

Despite win against Dallas, Bears now face even steeper odds for playoff appearance

Even with the victory, the Bears find themselves at a 5% chance or less of making the postseason.

Bears finally unlock Mitchell Trubisky’s rushing prowess

Chicago’s quarterback entered the game against Dallas with only 80 rushing yards and nearly matched that total in just one game after Head Coach Matt Nagy let him loose.

Akiem Hicks ready to make his return to the Bears against the rival Packers

Just in time for Green Bay, one of Chicago’s best defenders is expected to return to the interior of the defensive line.