NFC North Division Analysed: Part II
In the previous part we analysed the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions the two teams most analysts have placed as the front-runners for the National Football Conference (NFC) North Division title.
However, even though the Lions and Packers maybe the strongest but we can’t count out the Chicago Bears to have a go this year.
Chicago Bears
This is a team that had been most active during the offseason and brought in many experienced players to shore up the offensive and defensive rosters.
After ending with a disappointing 8-8 regular season last year thanks to injuries to key players in the offence the Bears did not want to see another repeat this year and brought in some major reinforcements.
In free-agency the Bears brought in three-time Pro-Bowler and wide receiver, Brandon Marshall from the Miami Dolphins to give quarterback Jay Cutler a primary go-to weapon.
In addition to Marshall, Chicago also signed up running back Michael Bush from the Oakland Raiders.
The franchise also faced its own long-running contract saga with running back Matt Forte who held out of the entire offseason as he awaited a new contract from the Bears.
However, on deadline day the Bears agreed a new four-year deal with Forte worth a total of $32 million.
Quarterback, Jay Cutler is also back after missing most of the second-half of 2011 due to a thumb injury.
Cutler’s injury was cited as the main reason for the Bears poor finish to a season they started very strongly and this year the quarterback will be looking to stay healthy and lead the franchise to the playoffs.
Chicago’s defence was always its biggest pride and the franchise has made some astute picks in the drafts such as bringing in Boise State linebacker Shea McClellin in the first round.
Stalwarts of the defence Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs and Julius Peppers remain at the franchise to provide a wide range of experience.
This is a strong Chicago side and they will push the Packers and Lions all the way in the quest for the NFC North title.
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings unlike their three division rivals are not at the same level.
Currently in a rebuilding phase Minnesota lacks the franchise quarterbacks and big offensive players at par with the rest of the division.
They will likely struggle this year too as rookie quarterback Christian Ponder continues to acclimatise to the NFL while the franchise continues to slowly develop its roster for the future.
Running back, Adrian Peterson will be key to the Vikings this year and if he remains injury free the franchise can expect a satisfactory end to the season but they will not challenge for the division title.
Tags: