NFC North Rundown: Packers maintain their lead as the division goes winless in Week 11

What was a promising beginning for the Green Bay Packers turned into a bitter end on Sunday afternoon, as the team dropped a close 34-31 overtime contest to the Indianapolis Colts.

It was almost a tale of two games, with the Packers getting out to a 14-point advantage at the break but only mustering six plays in the entire third quarter. Although the Packers were able to put together an impressive drive in the final two minutes of regulation to send the game to overtime, a costly fumble helped lead the Colts to victory.

Across the NFC North, the Packers’ dismay was a sentiment shared by all except the resting Chicago Bears. The Vikings’ short glimmer of postseason hope was dashed by a long Dallas touchdown scamper early in the fourth quarter. That run and failed attempt to tackle may have defined the Vikings’ season in just one play. Meanwhile, Detroit was shut out for the first time in over 10 years behind a meager offensive showing.

Each of those divisional developments can be found in today’s rundown, as well as a punter and new beer the Lions can be thankful for this season.

Chicago Bears (5-5)

Bye week; Next at Green Bay

Grounded Bears’ offense looking for post-bye spark

Head Coach Matt Nagy did a little self-scouting of the Packers via television Sunday, but he also took time during the bye to analyze areas the team has struggled, namely the running game.

Nagy still mulling starting quarterback decision

Another one of Nagy’s bye-week musings was which quarterback to start this week. It appears no decision has been made as of yet between Nick Foles, Mitch Trubisky, and even Tyler Bray.

Bears place Safety Eddie Jackson on COVID-19 list

Chicago could be without one of its key starting defensive pieces when it takes on Green Bay this week.

Minnesota Vikings (4-6)

Lost 31-28 vs. Dallas; Next vs. Carolina

Column: Vikings turn hope into heartbreak once again

Perhaps no story better sums up this specific Vikings season and many others that have ended in disappointment after getting fans’ hopes up.

Vikings can hang loss on Chris Jones’ non-attempt at tackle on Dallas touchdown run

Minnesota had a variety of issues against Dallas that led to a loss, but one writer believes a “woeful” tackle attempt is the chief reason and a season-defining play.

Vikings place Thielen on COVID-19 reserve list

A day after a monster performance (and crazy one-handed catch), the star receiver’s status is unknown heading into next week’s game against the Panthers.

Detroit Lions (4-6)

Lost 20-0 at Carolina; Next vs. Houston

How do you even get shut out by the Panthers? Detroit tries to explain

The Lions were held scoreless for the first time since 2009, accumulating just 185 yards of offense. Was it Matthew Stafford or the Lions’ offensive game plan which was at fault?

Even in misery, we found 5 things Detroit Lions can be thankful for

It’s telling of what kind of season it has been when the punter tops the list of things for the Lions to be thankful for.

Michigan brewery unveils Detroit Lions-themed beer, called ‘Same Old Lager’

Perhaps this Thanksgiving, Detroit fans can tailgate with this new beer, inspired by the Lions and the phrase “don’t set your expectations too high.”