Week 12 is in the books, and the Chicago Bears had another post-game, locker room speech led by head coach Ben Johnson’s “good, better, best” mantra. Detroit and Green Bay continued the chase of Chicago, and Minnesota dropped another game. Here are the team report cards from 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
Offensive Grade: B+
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Chicago’s offense was on display during the team’s Week 12 win against Pittsburgh. Quarterback Caleb Williams completed 19 of 35 passes for 239 yards and three touchdowns. Rookie running back Kyle Monangai is slowly taking over a chunk of the team’s carries, finishing the game with a third-straight game with a rushing touchdown. Chicago’s offense is blossoming in front of everyone’s eyes.
Defensive Grade: B-
The Bears surrendered 28 points but won the turnover battle. Chicago finished the game with one interception and one forced fumble recovery, adding to the league’s top-ranked team in turnover differential. The two knocks on Chicago’s defense continue to be the same story – the inability to pressure the opposing quarterback and issues stopping opposing run games.
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Overall Grade: B
There is a saying about winning ugly, and Chicago continues to do just that. Sunday’s win marked the Bears’ eighth win in their last nine games. Chicago’s defense must be at their best during Black Friday’s matchup against Philadelphia.
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Detroit Lions
Oct 12, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs (0) practices before the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Offensive Grade: A
Detroit’s high-power offense was on display Sunday. Quarterback Jared Goff finished the game with 279 passing yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. The team’s running game, specifically running back Jahmyr Gibbs, was the game’s standout. Gibbs finished the game with 219 rushing yards, two rushing touchdowns, 45 receiving yards, and one receiving touchdown.
Defensive Grade: C
The Lions’ defense was stout against the Giants’ running game, but quarterback Jameis Winston had his way through the air. He finished the game with 366 passing yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Detroit had issues penetrating New York’s offensive line, and this led to Winston’s great passing numbers.
Overall Grade: B+
Detroit was lucky to escape with a victory. It took more time than regulation, but the team ended Sunday victoriously. There are things to iron out on defense, but Detroit always has a chance when its high-powered offense is firing on all cylinders.
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
Offensive Grade: B+
Green Bay’s running game dominated, and the rest was history. Minnesota’s inability to stop the run led to Green Bay having the luxury of attempting only 22 passes. Running back Emanuel Wilson, filling in for Josh Jacobs, led the team with 28 carries, 107 rushing yards, and two touchdowns.
Defensive Grade: A
Green Bay’s defense continues to be one of the league’s best defensive units. The Packers’ defense showed out on Sunday, holding Minnesota to six points. The defensive unit applied pressure on J.J. McCarthy throughout the game, limiting McCarthy to 87 passing yards. Along the way, McCarthy threw two interceptions.
Overall Grade: A-
Sunday was a big win for Green Bay. The victory keeps them in second place, behind the Chicago Bears. The Packers have a tough schedule to end the season, and the team’s offense must click to keep them in playoff contention.
Minnesota Vikings
Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) reacts after a play during the first half against the Atlanta Falcons at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) reacts after a play during the first half against the Atlanta Falcons at U.S. Bank Stadium – Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
Offensive Grade: D
Minnesota’s offense was atrocious on Sunday. The offensive unit failed to find the endzone, finishing the game with 87 passing yards and 93 rushing yards. The running game was slightly efficient, averaging 4.7 yards per carry, but ended drives without touchdowns.
Defensive Grade: D
The season-long story continues for Minnesota. They cannot stop the run and do not force turnovers. Sunday’s loss dropped the Vikings to 4-7. The team’s playoff hopes are nearly over, and the team’s defense has struggled throughout the season.
Overall Grade: D
Sunday’s loss is nearly the nail in the coffin for the team’s playoff chances. The team has battled injuries throughout the season and has yet to find consistency on both sides of the ball. It’s tough losing a divisional game, but it’s even tougher when the loss is a blowout.
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