With the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings on their bye weeks, Detroit fans will have to root for the Dallas Cowboys and Atlanta Falcons this weekend. Green Bay hosts Dallas on Sunday Night Football, while Chicago takes on Atlanta. Minnesota currently leads the NFC North at 5-0, while Detroit, Green Bay and Chicago are tied for second at 3-2.
Here’s a closer look at where each team stands heading into the weekend.
Minnesota Vikings (5-0)
The Minnesota Vikings remain undefeated thanks largely to their dominant defense. Minnesota allows the second-fewest total yards in the NFL and the fewest points, surrendering just 12.8 per game.
However, the Vikings’ offense has struggled, averaging the sixth-fewest total yards in the league and scoring 21.8 points per game. Minnesota will look to maintain its perfect record when it hosts the Indianapolis Colts after the bye.
Despite its offensive concerns, Minnesota currently has the best odds to win the NFC North at +115.
Detroit Lions (3-2)
The Lions enter their bye week following a dominant 45-21 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Detroit’s defense showed significant improvement, generating consistent pressure and helping the team secure its first road win of the season.
The bye also gives Detroit an opportunity to get healthier, with starting safety Brian Branch and center Cade Mays working their way back from injuries.
Detroit returns in Week 7 to host Green Bay in its first divisional matchup of the season. The Lions have the second-best odds to win the NFC North at +250 and can make an early statement with a victory over the Packers.
Chicago Bears (3-2)
The Bears are expecting quarterback Caleb Williams to return against the Atlanta Falcons after missing time. Chicago managed to go 2-1 without its starting quarterback, keeping itself in the division race.
Starting cornerback Kyler Gordon is also expected to return, potentially providing another boost to the defense.
After facing Atlanta, Chicago will take on the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks. The Bears currently have the third-best odds to win the division at +360, just behind Detroit.
Green Bay Packers (3-2)
Green Bay bounced back with a convincing 31-7 victory over Chicago last week. The Packers now face Dallas on Sunday Night Football before traveling to Detroit for a crucial Week 7 matchup.
Green Bay expects to get All-Pro running back Josh Jacobs back against the Lions. The Packers could also welcome pass rusher Micah Parsons back later this season, although he was not activated from injured reserve for this week’s game.
Despite their recent win, Green Bay has the longest odds to win the NFC North at +700. Injuries have hurt the Packers, who have lost four starters to season-ending injuries.