Justin Tucker’s 61-Yard Field Goal Helps the Chicago Bears Keep First Place in NFC North

Dec 16, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker (9) celebrates after kicking a field goal during the third quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Justin Tucker, your table is ready!  The Baltimore Ravens kicker booted six field goals but none more critical than the 61-yarder in the closing minute of Monday Night Football’s matchup against the Detroit Lions to give the Baltimore Ravens an 18-16 victory over the Detroit Lions.  The Lions entered the weekend in first place, but with the loss and wins by the Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers, they drop to third place in the NFC North and no longer control their own destiny for a postseason appearance.

The loss drops the Lions to 7-7 and gives the 8-6 Chicago Bears sole possession of first place in the NFC North and gives them control of their playoff destiny.   It also opens the door for the 7-6-1 Green Bay Packers and almost certainly assures that Aaron Rodgers will return this week with the Packers still alive on the playoff hunt.