2015 NFL predictions

NFC North

Aaron Rodgers could turn you or me into a 1000 yard WR. The Pack will get over losing Nelson and continue on like nothing happened…just like they always do. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

Green Bay Packers (13-3; 1st Place NFC North)

Story of the season – The Packers hit a setback in losing Jordy Nelson, but the truth is that they overcome this kind of thing almost every year.  There almost always seems to be at least one star wide receiver that the team will have to do without.  In just the last two seasons, the Packers have moved on from both James Jones and Greg Jennings.  I expect the same thing to happen here.

Minnesota Vikings (11-5; 2nd Place NFC North – Wild Card)

Story of the season – The Vikings are my surprise team for the 2015 season.  Getting Adrian Peterson back should be a huge boost to the offense.  The defense is talented and will keep them in some low scoring games that play very well to what should be a run-heavy offense.

Detroit Lions (4-12; 3rd Place NFC North)

Story of the season – The Lions are in for a letdown year.  Moving on from both Suh and Fairley was a mistake.  The pass rush will not be the same for them this year, and that’s going to result in opponents being able to keep up with them on the scoreboard.  The running game is still an uncertainty, and Calvin Johnson can only carry them so far.

Chicago Bears (1-15; 4th Place NFC North)

Story of the season – To be honest, I think Bears fans are ready for this.  I think they are at the point where they just want the undeniable proof that Jay Cutler has to go.  It’s going to be bad.  And with both Alshon Jeffrey and Kevin White having injury problems, this offense isn’t going to scare anyone.  Moving to a 3-4 may be a good long-term move, but that won’t bring much solace in 2015.

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