The Detroit Lions‘ 11-game winning streak has been crucial to their chances of clinching the division title. With the Minnesota Vikings relentlessly pursuing them, every single win has been necessary.
As Week 15 approaches, the Lions hold a one-game lead over the Vikings, along with the head-to-head tiebreaker. However, the Vikings are hot on their tail for both the NFC North crown and a top seed in the playoffs.
Here’s a look at the NFC North standings heading into Week 15, featuring insights from OnSI publishers across the division.
Detroit Lions
Rankings: Lions, Vikings, Packers, Bears
Week 15: Lions vs. Bills (4:25 p.m. Sunday, Ford Field)
Most impactful player on defense: It’s tough to pick just one player on the defense, given the number of injuries to key figures like Aidan Hutchinson and Alex Anzalone. Nonetheless, two constants have been safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph. Together, they’ve accumulated 11 interceptions this season, with Joseph tied for the league lead with seven. If any one player stands out, it’s likely Branch due to his contributions both in coverage and against the run.
Keys to victory: The Lions must contain Josh Allen. Detroit’s offense has proven capable of keeping up with anyone, so scoring won’t be the issue. However, defensively, they’ll need to get enough stops against the explosive Bills offense. To manage this, creating turnovers and controlling the time of possession will be key. Avoiding three-and-outs and winning the possession battle will be crucial for Detroit to extend their winning streak. — John Maakaron, Lions OnSI.
Minnesota Vikings
Week 15: Vikings vs. Bears (8 p.m. Monday, U.S. Bank Stadium)
Most impactful player on defense: Jonathan Greenard. While Blake Cashman is often considered the lynchpin of the defense, Greenard’s impact cannot be overlooked. He’s producing pressures at an All-Pro level, and his disruptive presence has overshadowed Danielle Hunter. In fact, Greenard might be playing the best defensive end in Minnesota since Jared Allen wore the horns.
Keys to victory: Noise will play a major role. U.S. Bank Stadium will be rocking on Monday night, creating the loudest environment Caleb Williams has faced in his professional career. If the fans can make the atmosphere deafening, the rookie might struggle and make mistakes. Additionally, keeping Williams contained in the pocket is essential. He hurt the Vikings when he escaped the pocket in their previous matchup at Soldier Field, so neutralizing his mobility will be critical. — Joe Nelson, Vikings OnSI.
Green Bay Packers
Week 15: Packers at Seahawks (8:20 p.m. Sunday, Lumen Field)
Rankings: Lions, Vikings, Packers, Bears
Most impactful player on defense: Xavier McKinney. Last season, the Packers’ starting safeties didn’t record a single interception, finishing with just seven as a team. This year, McKinney, who was signed from the Giants in free agency, has seven interceptions himself. He’s been a standout in coverage, tackling well, and leading the secondary. While his four-year, $67 million contract might not seem like a bargain, McKinney has certainly earned every penny.
Keys to victory: The Packers have two significant advantages over the Seahawks. First, running the ball. Josh Jacobs ranks third in the NFL in rushing and has scored seven times in the last three games. He’ll face one of the league’s weaker run defenses. Establishing the run game will create more offensive opportunities for Green Bay, who had 30 fewer snaps than the Lions last week. Second, turnovers. The Packers are third in takeaways, while the Seahawks rank ninth in giveaways. Green Bay is No. 1 in converting turnovers into points. If they capitalize on these advantages, the Packers could secure their 10th win and move closer to the playoffs. — Bill Huber, Packers OnSI.
Chicago Bears
Week 15: Bears at Vikings (8 p.m. Monday, U.S. Bank Stadium)
Rankings: Lions, Vikings, Packers, Bears
Most impactful player on defense: CB Jaylon Johnson. Despite the overall decline of the Bears’ defense due to injuries, Johnson has been a bright spot, giving Chicago a chance to neutralize opposing weapons. He was key in limiting Justin Jefferson to just two catches during the first matchup between these teams. While his performance has dipped slightly, he still plays at a high enough level to challenge any receiver.
Keys to victory: The Bears need to prove they haven’t given up on the season. After their dismal performance in San Francisco, doubts have emerged about Thomas Brown’s candidacy for the head coaching position. Can the team rally to finish strong? Short passing will be crucial against Minnesota, as the Bears’ running game has been lackluster, with D’Andre Swift failing to reach 60 yards in five of the last six games. — Gene Chamberlain, Bears OnSI.
