NFL 2018 record predictions: Packers bounce back in big way

NFC North

1. Packers (12-4)

2. Vikings (11-5)

3. Bears (9-7)

4. Lions (7-9)

The NFC North will once again be the Green Bay Packers’ division.

In what should be a close battle in one of the toughest divisions in football, I have the Packers just edging ahead of the defending-champion Minnesota Vikings.

Green Bay matches its record from four years ago, and like that season, secures the second seed in the NFC. The Packers’ four losses come against the Detroit Lions, Los Angeles Rams, New England Patriots and Vikings.

Despite not retaining their division crown, the Vikings still advance to the playoffs by securing the fifth seed and a wild-card berth.

The Chicago Bears will be the story of the 2018 season, posting their first winning record in six years, adding four victories on to last year’s tally. Unfortunately for the Bears, they play in a division featuring two Super Bowl contenders, which could be the reason they miss out on the postseason.

There’s only so many wins to go around, and the Detroit Lions drop to fourth place in the division with a 7-9 record, their worst in three years.

I predict the NFC North will feature two playoff teams for the fourth time in five seasons. The Packers earn a week off and prepare for the divisional round, while the Vikings enter Wild Card Weekend.