NFC North Rundown: Tempers flare in Chicago as offensive struggles continue

A humiliating loss for the Green Bay Packers on Sunday was a theme around the NFC North as three of the four divisional teams lost in disappointing fashion.

The only win was achieved by the Packers’ Week 8 nemesis, Minnesota, who earned just its second win of the season behind a ground game that Green Bay could not slow down. It only gets tougher for the Packers’ run defense this week as the team travels to San Francisco on short rest to defend its 5-2 record at the top of the NFC North.

While the Vikings’ win should not change its season or trade deadline outlook, there was some history made for Dalvin Cook amid some dangerous defensive injuries. But additional injuries were suffered in Detroit, while punches flew in Chicago as each team lost in contrasting ways.

Today’s rundown takes a look at some of those unique circumstances, as well as the recurring offensive shortcomings for the Bears that do not all involve quarterback play.

Chicago Bears (5-3)

Lost 26-23 vs. New Orleans; Next at Tennessee

10 takes on the Bears’ 26-23 overtime loss to the Saints at home

The quick-hitters following Sunday’s loss make one thing apparent: the Bears have plenty of problems on their hands. From the quarterback situation to Robert Quinn, issues are aplenty. But kicker isn’t one.

Chicago Bears WR Javon Wims suspended; New Orleans Saints DB C.J. Gardner-Johnson denies spitting report

Wims will appeal his two-game suspension after throwing bewildering punches at Gardner-Johnson that earned an ejection.

3 things that stood out to Nagy in Week 8 loss

Penalties, offensive line trouble, and lingering third-down issues were the points of interest in the head coach’s post-game presser.

Detroit Lions (3-4)

Lost 41-21 vs. Indianapolis; Next at Minnesota

Detroit Lions stock watch: Kenny Golladay’s big contract may have to wait

A week after Golladay made writers around Detroit rave and ask for a long-term deal, the receiver’s health concerns were raised again on Sunday. He’s one of the downward-moving stocks this week, while a defensive end is on the rise for the second consecutive game.

Detroit Lions place Trey Flowers on IR

The Lions’ prized pass rusher landed on the injured list, but figures to return in time for a late-season meeting with Green Bay.

Bo Scarbrough released by Detroit Lions

D’Andre Swift and Kerryon Johnson made the former Alabama power back expendable despite his promising moments last season.

Minnesota Vikings (2-5)

Won 28-22 at Green Bay; Next vs. Detroit

Dalvin Cook’s 4 TDs make history as Vikings upset Packers

It may have been easy for Packers fans to overlook an interesting factoid in the middle of Cook’s rushing rampage.

Minnesota Vikings CB Cameron Dantzler taken to hospital, has full movement of body

One of the scarier moments in Sunday’s game was when Dantzler was carted off the field, but the rookie was able to regain full movement later after his neck injury.

Vikings should wheel and deal at NFL trade deadline despite victory over Packers

Minnesota will be one of the more intriguing teams to watch before today’s deadline, and here’s one reasoning for why the Vikings should not change their course after a win.