Aaron Rodgers' out: Who is the NFC North favorite now?

Aaron Rodgers’ out: Who is the NFC North favorite now?

Sep 13, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) reaches out to stiff arm Chicago Bears defensive tackle Henry Melton (69) while carrying the football during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Bears 23-10. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /

2 of 2

Oct 6, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back Eddie Lacy (27) runs with the ball as Detroit Lions defensive tackle Andre Fluellen (96) tackels in the second quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports /

The most important game remaining though could come in the final week of the season when the Packers travel to Soldier Field to battle the Bears. With the division winner set to be decided in the final two months, the team who can battle the cold weather while controlling the run game will likely be the team that comes out on top.

That makes it unlikely the Lions will win it, as their pass-happy offense tends to bog down late in the year, especially with games at Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Chicago on the docket.

The Bears have been terrible against the run since Lance Briggs was lost for the year, and Matt Forte has helped carry the ground game, but Marc Trestman is more committed to the passing game.

That leaves the Packers, who are ranked 2nd in rushing offense and 5th in run defense, as the team built to make a run late in the year that could help them once again win the NFC North title.

Home/Detroit Lions