NFC North Power Rankings: Minnesota Vikings fall in Week 7

The Minnesota Vikings suffered their first loss of the season in Week 7 when the team hosted the Detroit Lions and fell short against a tough divisional opponent that changed the scope of the NFC North.

Minnesota's loss to Detroit was a major shakeup in the NFC North that sent shockwaves through the division and the conference. But how do the outcomes from Week 7 shake up the power rankings in the division?

NFC North Power Rankings: Week 7

1. Detroit Lions

Record:5-1
Week 7 result: Win at Vikings 31-29

Entering Week 7, the Detroit Lions were in a position to take the top position in the NFC North if they could hand the Vikings their first loss of the season. They accomplished that goal at U.S. Bank Stadium in the closing moments, taking the top spot in the division.

Even without top defensive star Aidan Hutchinson, the Lions gave Minnesota a fight for all four quarters and showed why they are one of the top teams in the conference. Now on a four-game winning streak, the Detroit looks like a serious contender.

Week 8 matchup: vs. Titans

2. Minnesota Vikings

Record: 5-1
Week 7 result: Loss vs. Lions 29-31

It's crazy to think that one loss can knock a team to the second spot in their division, but that's just how good the NFC North is. Undefeated before Week 7, the Minnesota Vikings are now second in their division and will need to rebound with a short turnaround before Week 8.

Despite their loss, the Vikings hung with the Lions until the last minute. The purple and gold didn't play their best football on Sunday, but still seem like a team destined for the playoffs during the 2024 NFL season.

Week 8 matchup: at Rams (TNF)

3. Green Bay Packers

Record: 5-2
Week 7 result: Win vs Texans 24-22

The Houston Texans pushed the Green Bay Packers to the limit, but Jordan Love and company were able to knock off C.J. Stroud's team and move their record to 5-2 on the season, but that is still only good enough for third in the division.

In most divisions, a 5-2 record would be good enough to be on top. However, the NFC North is so competitive that they land in third. Despite that, Green Bay is a team to watch as the season continues to roll on.

Week 8 matchup: at Jaguars

4. Chicago Bears

Record: 4-2
Week 7 result: Bye

The Chicago Bears didn't play in Week 7 but bring a 4-2 record into Week 8. That record might be a little misleading since their wins came against the Jaguars, Panthers, Rams, and Titans, none of which are exceptionally dangerous teams.

Chicago has a lot of young talent and a strong defense that could help them continue to win games. They have yet to face a divisional opponent this year and that is when it will truly be known how they stack up against the NFC North.

Week 8 matchup: at Commanders

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