The Chicago Bears have a difficult road when it comes to the NFC North and finding a way to claw their way to the top. While it is clear that the remaining three teams are talented, there are undeniable advantages the Bears have over each of their rivals.
With this in mind, let's look at each advantage and how it could come into play deep into the season. Starting with a hated rival who has a clear concern when it comes to late-game situations and whether or not a certain rookie is going to be able to deliver in the season's biggest moments.
1. Green Bay's Kicking Game Remains an Issue
The Packers have watched as Trey Smack has repeated all of the struggles they had with veteran Brandon McManus a season ago and added some of his own. There is clear reason for a lack of belief that the Packers are capable enough to score in clutch situations, while the Bears have far more confidence in Cairo Santos, even with the clear limitations when it comes to hitting long kicks.
Still, it was the kicking issues a season ago that allowed Chicago to complete an epic playoff comeback and eliminate the hated rival. It is completely fair to wonder whether it is the Bears or another team could be getting ready to walk this same path with the rookie kicker appearing to be an undeniable weakness.
2. Minnesota's Quarterback Situation is Complete Desperation
The Vikings parted ways with J.J. McCarthy and have attempted to find answers in both Carson Wentz and Kyler Murray. The franchise was so incredibly desperate that Kirk Cousins was added ahead of the deadline in hopes of breathing life into the offense. It is an incredible advantage to have Caleb Williams and understand no matter who the starter is by the end of the season the Bears are far and away in a better position.
It is difficult to believe the Vikings aren't going to continue to fade as the offense is clearly very flawed. Asking an aging Cousins to save the franchise is unlikely to end well and leaves the Bears with a clear advantage.
3. Detroit Clearly Lacks Offensive Genius
As Chicago is enjoying finding out life without Ben Johnson is far from easy. The Lions offense is completely different in comparison to the one that was run under the current Chicago head coach during his time as the Detroit offensive coordinator. The unit is inconsistent and lacks the creativity that Chicago now thrives on.
With this in mind, the Lions appear to be a lesser threat and likely to fade as well. Chicago remains a far superior roster with every reason to believe that the Lions are going to continue to miss Johnson while the Bears have clearly surpassed the once trendy contender.
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