Here’s How the NFC North Fared in Preseason Week 3
Preseason schedules concluded around the NFL this weekend, and the NFC North was a mixed bag of results.
Here is a look at how the division fared in Week 3 of the preseason schedule as the teams prepare for Week 1 action.
Chicago’s Comeback Lands Just Short vs. Buffalo
The Chicago Bears finished their preseason with a 1-2 record after their loss to the Buffalo Bills. They fell into an early 14-3 deficit before attempting to storm back into the game. However, their comeback ended up just short as they ultimately lost the game, 24-21.
Chicago was unable to generate much of a rushing attack against the Bills defense with rookie Roschon Johnson totaling just 22 yards with his nine carries. On the other side, Kyle Allen had a strong game for Buffalo at QB, completing 18-of-34 passes for 162 yards and a touchdown.
Detroit Rolls By Carolina
The Detroit Lions were another team that fell behind early, trailing the Carolina Panthers 10-0 at the end of the first quarter. Adam Thielen caught Bryce Young’s first TD pass of the preseason, and it was the best performance of the summer for the No. 1 overall pick.
However, Detroit came roaring back with 20 points in the second quarter. This included a 70-yard touchdown connection between Teddy Bridgewater and Antoine Green to claim the lead, 17-10. In the end, the Lions were able to hold off Carolina by a score of 26-17.
Green Bay Squeaks Past Seattle
The Green Bay Packers took on the Seattle Seahawks in a tight game to conclude the preseason. Jordan Love finished the exhibition schedule with a strong showing as he attempts to replace 4-time MVP Aaron Rodgers. The first-year starter completed 9-of-15 passes for 62 yards and a touchdown pass to Christian Watson.
Seattle took the lead on a fourth quarter touchdown run from SaRodorick Thompson, but Green Bay followed that score up with a touchdown from Nate McCrary to take the victory, 19-15.
Minnesota Stumbles to Finish vs. Arizona
The Minnesota Vikings roared out to a 14-0 lead over the Arizona Cardinals in the first quarter, but that was just about all the offense they would muster throughout the game.
Jaren Hall continues to look like a promising QB prospect, but once the second stringers left the game, Arizona rolled in the second half behind David Blough. Minnesota had a chance to regain the lead late; however, Greg Joseph missed a 54-yard field goal. Ultimately, Arizona would win the game, 18-17.
Josh Frey is a Class of 2020 graduate of The College of Idaho and managing editor of PurplePTSD.com. When he’s not writing about the NFL, Josh enjoys running, gaming, or rooting for the Milwaukee Brewers and Bucks. Check out his Twitter account: @Freyed_Chicken.