Week 8 has concluded, and there were many takeaways throughout the NFC North. Minnesota suffered its second consecutive loss, and Chicago’s offense fell flat. The two teams’ performances raised eyebrows as they wanted to gain momentum for the upcoming weeks. As the season enters the halfway point and Detroit returns from its BYE, the following weeks become crucial to playoff implications. Here is a look at the key takeaways and lessons learned from week eight.
Vikings:
Oct 19, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Jordan Mason (27) warms up before the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
Minnesota’s Run Game Struggles
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Minnesota has relied on its running game to kickstart the offense. Unfortunately, the Vikings were unable to find success against the Chargers. The team finished with 34 yards (3.1 average) on 11 carries. They played from behind throughout the game, and the offense became one-dimensional, favoring the passing game. Teams will struggle to win games when they cannot run the football.
Justin Jefferson Leads Minnesota Receivers
Entering Thursday night’s game, Justin Jefferson fared well in three games against the Chargers. In those games, Jefferson had 23 catches, 366 yards, and one touchdown. Minnesota’s star wide receiver had a modest game, leading Vikings receivers with 11 targets, seven receptions, and 74 yards. 74 yards were his least amount since week one, but the bigger story is Jefferson having one touchdown on the season.
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The Chargers’ Offense Dominates Minnesota
Los Angeles dominated Minnesota on Thursday night. Justin Herbert completed 18 of 25 passes, finishing the game with 227 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. The Chargers were equally as successful on the ground, combining for 207 yards (4.8 average) on 43 attempts. Running back Kimani Vidal led the way with 117 yards and one touchdown. The Vikings’ defense has struggled to replicate the success it had in 2024.
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Bears:
Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams during a game against the Green Bay Packers
Jan 5, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images | Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
Caleb Williams Again Fails to Record a Touchdown Pass
Williams finished week eight with a second consecutive game failing to record a touchdown pass. He finished with 285 passing yards, but only 65% of his passes were completed. The second-year quarterback is continuing to develop, and efficiency is a must.
Dominated by Ravens in Run Game
Chicago’s run defense took a step back against Baltimore. After containing opposing running games during weeks six and seven, the Bears surrendered 177 yards (5.1 average) and two touchdowns on 35 rushing attempts. Chicago’s inability to defend the run kept its offense on the sideline and allowed Baltimore to take precious time off the play clock. Chicago failed to continue building momentum.
Chicago’s Offense Struggles for Touchdowns in the Red Zone
Chicago’s first two drives ended in points, but via field goals. The team’s inability to find the end zone allowed Baltimore to make up the six-point deficit after the first quarter. Chicago’s only touchdown came in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s game. The Bears’ offense followed suit with their defense in taking a step back after two consecutive strong performances.
Packers:
Oct 19, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) passes while being rushed by Arizona Cardinals outside linebacker Josh Sweat (10) during the second half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Jordan Loves Has His Way Against Pittsburgh
Jordan Love had not only his best game of the season, but the best game of his career. He completed 29 of 37 passes for 360 yards and three touchdowns. Green Bay’s quarterback torched Pittsburgh’s defense throughout Sunday Night Football.
Tucker Kraft Goes Off
Tucker Kraft took note of National Tight End Day. The Packer finished the game with seven receptions, 143 yards, and two touchdowns. On the season, Kraft has 30 catches, 469 receiving yards, and six touchdowns.
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