Bears Have Toughest Schedule Among NFC North Contenders

Sep 29, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; A Detroit Lions fan holds a sign during the game against the Chicago Bears at Ford Field. The Lions won 40-32. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

The Lions currently hold the tie-breaker against the Bears, by merit of a Week 4 win at Ford Field.  It makes Sunday’s matchup huge for both teams.  The Lions can put themselves in the driver’s seat with a win; the Bears need one to take back the tie breaker.

For the Lions, they would appear to have the easiest path, with only two games remaining against teams with winning records – this Sunday’s trip to Soldier Field and a Thanksgiving visit by the Packers.  Besides that, they play the winless Bucs and a pair of 2-6 teams.  Their opponents’ winning percentage is a meager .320.  Besides a relatively easy schedule, they are the healthiest of the big three.

Nov 4, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Shea McClellin (99) and cornerback Isaiah Frey (31) sacks Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) in the 1st quarter at Lambeau Field. Rodgers left the game with a hand injury after the play. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Things look pretty grim for the Packers, who are expected to be without starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers for the next 4-6 weeks.  Please hold back your tears.  They haven’t had a major quarterback injury in a couple of decades.   They have three games against teams with winning records – the Lions, the Cowboys and the season finale against the Bears.  Although they face a .38 winning percentage overall, their three hardest games  – all against teams with winning records – are all on the road.  That makes their toughest games a little tougher.

What do you think?  Which team will come away with the NFC North crown?  Vote in our poll and post your comments!