NFC North 2017 predictions: Packers expected to retain crown
Matt Bathrick
A healthy group of talented receivers, an effective dual-threat starting running back in the backfield, the addition of former Pro Bowl tight end Martellus Bennett, and, oh yeah, arguably the best quarterback Aaron Rodgers in football right now has a “renewed passion” for the game. The Packers may be primed to explode with what could actually be their most dangerous offense.
The defense looks solid on the line and at safety, but there are questions for every position in between. And the depth on the offensive line can be worrisome. But I see them winning 12 games and taking the division for the sixth time in seven years.
Minnesota replaced Adrian Peterson with the very talented rookie Dalvin Cook, and completely overhauled their o-line from a year ago. QB Sam Bradford is a very capable signal caller with a year now under his belt within the organization.
Their defense will be one of the league’s best with a harsh pass rush, ungenerous run stop, and very good secondary with Xavier Rhodes and newly acquired Tramaine Brock. The preseason wasn’t kind to the Vikings, but they have all of the pieces to put together a good season. I say they win 10 games and a wild card.
Despite losing Calvin Johnson to retirement last year, the now-$135-million man Matthew Stafford was still able to lead an efficient passing attack in 2016. This year he’ll have a deep threat in rookie receiver Kenny Golladay. If Ameer Abdullah can stay healthy, it would give the team a dual threat in the backfield between he and pass-catching back Theo Riddick.
Chicago might have a bright future in the works with the several rookies with potential starting with QB Mitchell Trubisky, but this year will be trying to say the least. Mike Glennon will start the season as the Bears’ starting QB, but he only serves as a bridge until the team is ready to play Trubisky. That very well may be this year.
The team looks like it should improve a little on defense. With a solid set of linebackers, they made additions this offseason to a secondary that lacked playmakers last year. But it won’t be enough to avoid last place in the division.
Green Bay 12-4
Minnesota 10-6
Detroit 8-8
Chicago 5-11