NFC North Rundown: Lions wait to see new DL in action, Vikings evaluate backup QBs

An ugly 26-13 loss in Baltimore left a bitter taste in some Green Bay Packers fans’ mouths last Thursday night, especially on the heels of an unforeseen injury to Aaron Rodgers that kept him from making his first preseason appearance. With the Packers being cautious with Rodgers’ usage since then, many fans remain unsettled about the quarterback’s need for at least some level of playing time in preparation for the regular season.

Around the division, several backup quarterbacks have been given opportunities to shine as well. In fact, Minnesota may have a controversy on its hands over who the primary backup should be despite some interesting post-game comments from its head coach.

As that storyline continues over the next week and the Detroit Lions hope to get some veteran, yet newly-arrived, defensive linemen on the field soon, here is the NFC North recap.

Detroit Lions

Lost 30-23 at Houston; Next Friday vs. Buffalo

Studs and Duds from preseason Week 2 Lions vs Texans

Detroit’s first-round selection made a highlight catch, while an All-Pro return man struggled mightily in week two of the preseason.

Lions’ Trey Flowers eager for game reps, but heeding advice of training staff

The $90 million man is still waiting for his first preseason game reps with Detroit while recovering from a shoulder injury, as is a former Packer on the defensive line.

Lions sign wide receiver Jordan Lasley

A former fifth-round pick of the Baltimore Ravens, Lasley comes to Detroit after a highly-successful college career at UCLA on the field but a tumultuous career off of it.

Chicago Bears

Lost 32-13 at New York Giants; Next Saturday at Indianapolis

Chicago Bears: 3 standout players in loss to Giants

A former “Last Chance U” star made the list of players who stood out for the Bears in week two.

Riley Ridley earns high marks for preseason debut

Chicago’s fourth-rounder did not fill up the box score, but still earned a high grade from Pro Football Focus for his all-around efforts.

Matt Nagy continues to go by ‘feel’ while getting the Bears ready for the season

From post-game dance parties to participation decisions, the Bears’ head coach uses “feel” to conduct the Bears’ preseason activities.

Minnesota Vikings

Won 25-19 vs. Seattle; Next Saturday vs. Arizona

Vikings Preseason Game 2 Notes

Adam Thielen has seemingly picked up right where he left off in 2018, while Pat Elflein struggled mightily at left guard against the Seahawks.

With Sean Mannion likely to be Vikings’ backup QB, Mike Zimmer shrugs off Kyle Sloter’s gaudy preseason stats

Head Coach Mike Zimmer downplayed Sloter’s performance, highlighting the areas of the quarterback’s game that need improvement.

Mike Boone using big plays to make strong case to Vikings

The second-year back has been effective in the screen game and may contend not only for a roster spot, but the primary backup role behind Dalvin Cook.