Week 12 is in the books. Chicago added its eighth win in nine games, Detroit’s victory kept them in the chase with Chicago, and Green Bay dominated Minnesota. The NFC North crown is turning into a three-team race between the Bears, Packers, and Lions. Unfortunately, the Vikings are starting to lose ground on a weekly basis. Here are the takeaways and things we learned during Week 12 in the NFC North.
Chicago Bears
Oct 26, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) drops back to pass during the fourth quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images
Caleb Williams Growth Continues
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The Chicago quarterback’s growth continues to be noticeable. Williams is cool under pressure, and the team is reaping the benefits. Caleb Williams finished week twelve with 239 passing yards and three passing touchdowns.
Chicago Wins the Turnover Battle
Chicago’s defense is ranked 1st in turnover differential (+16) and added one interception and a forced fumble recovery on Sunday. Winning the turnover battle has aided in Chicago’s success throughout the season. The Bears’ defense must continue their pace during Black Friday’s matchup with Philadelphia.
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Detroit Lions
Nov 23, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs (0) runs the ball for a touchdown in over time against the New York Giants at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images
Jahmyr Gibbs Puts Up MVP Numbers
The Detroit running back had a monster game in Detroit’s overtime win against New York. Gibbs finished the game with 219 rushing yards, two rushing touchdowns, 45 receiving yards, and one receiving touchdown. The running back continues to lead Detroit’s high-potent offense.
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Detroit’s Jack Campbell Continues to Rack Up Tackles
Detroit linebacker Jack Campbell is having a great season. His 108 tackles lead Detroit and is 3rd among NFL tackles leaders. He’s quickly become one of the better under-the-radar linebackers in the NFL.
Green Bay Packers
Green Bay Packers running back Emanuel Wilson (23) rushes against the Minnesota Vikings linebacker Eric Wilson (55) on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers defeated the Vikings 24-6. Wm. Glasheen USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
Green Bay’s Running Game Leads the Way
Green Bay’s effective running game led the way against Minnesota. The Packers finished with 42 carries, 146 yards, and two touchdowns. Running back Josh Jacobs was inactive due to a knee injury, and backup Emanuel Wilson led the Packers with 107 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Micah Parson Adds Two Sacks
Green Bay defensive end Micah Parsons added two sacks Sunday, adding to his team lead. The Packers continue to reap the benefits of one of the league’s best offseason acquisitions. Parson’s 10 sacks rank him 5th among the NFL’s leaders in sacks.
Minnesota Vikings
J.J. McCarthy
Nov 9, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) drops back to pass against the Baltimore Ravens in the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
J.J. McCarthy Has a Rough Game
McCarthy’s first season as a starter continues to be a rough go-around. The Vikings’ quarterback has dealt with injuries and mediocre production. J.J. McCarthy finished Sunday’s game, versus Green Bay, completing 12 of 19 passes for 87 yards and two interceptions. The Packers pressured the young quarterback throughout the game, compiling five sacks.
Justin Jefferson Held in Check
Minnesota wide receiver Justin Jefferson has performed well against Green Bay throughout his career. Unfortunately, the Packers defense held the superstar in check. He finished the game with six targets, four receptions, and 48 receiving yards. Jefferson’s lackluster performance was directly correlated to quarterback J.J. McCarthy being under pressure throughout Sunday’s game. Jefferson’s performance can become the norm as first-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy endures bumps and bruises throughout the season. It’s a season of learning, and Jefferson will endure highs and lows of his own.
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