The NFC North is still one of the best divisions in the NFL this year, but the standings are looking a bit flipped, and it's just hard to believe. It goes to show you just how much parity is in the NFL this year, and the NFC Playoff Picture as a whole looks a lot different now than it did last year.
We saw three teams in the NFC North in action on Thursday and Friday, and those results really had a notable impact on the standings. The Detroit Lions' chances at the division now might be gone after this latest loss, and the Bears continue to position themselves well.
Let's dive into some NFC North power rankings as Week 13 continues.
Lions losing grip in updated NFC North Power Rankings
4. Minnesota Vikings
Max Brosmer gets the start for the Minnesota Vikings this week, as JJ McCarthy has a concussion, and it's simply been a season to forget for Minnesota, as the QB situation has gone from one of the best to one of the worst in the NFL in just one short season. This roster was ready to win, but McCarthy has played some all-time bad quarterback this year, and the Vikings might have to again remake the QB room this coming offseason.
3. Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions just are not a special team anymore, as the loss of Ben Johnson has had a massive impact on their success this year on offense. Now 7-5, the Lions are totally out of the NFC Playoff Picture right now and have a ton of work to do to get back in. Heck, they might have to win out to get into the playoffs this year.
All of the Lions' roster talent has not been able to cover up for the notable coaching issues this year.
2. Green Bay Packers
The Green Bay Packers still have the NFC North in reach and are just a half game back of the Chicago Bears, as the 8-3-1 record has complicated things a bit. The Packers have a tie with the Dallas Cowboys on their record, and that might end up being the deciding factor in who wins the division. The Packers took down the Lions in Detroit on Thanksgiving and all but ended the Lions' chances at the NFC North title this year.
1. Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears just keep winning and are now 9-1 after a shaky 0-2 start, and it's clear that this team is for real under first-year head coach Ben Johnson, who could be the frontrunner for the NFL Coach of the Year award. The Bears have not been playing consistent football each week, but they are doing enough to win and are great at closing out games, so them being ranked no. 1 in our latest NFC North power rankings is the only right answer here.