NFC North Weekend Roundup – Week 8

The promise of rookie quarterback Christian Ponder had fans feeling good about last week's narrow loss to the Packers at the Metrodome. This week, the Vikings hit the road to face off against another rookie in Cam Newton, who has been an electrifying player to watch on a team that has failed to win many of their games. The Vikings attacked through the air in the first half, with Ponder hitting Percy Harvin in the first quarter and Adrian Peterson in the second quarter for touchdowns. Newton's Panthers duplicated the Vikings air attack, striking twice in the second quarter to tie the game at 14 each. The third quarter saw Adrian Peterson and Steve Smith each score, keeping the game tied to enter the final quarter of play. Ryan Longwell's 31-yard field goal put the Vikings ahead in the 4th; and the combination of a Panthers holding penalty and a 31-yard Olindo Mare field goal miss kept the Vikings on top as the clock wound down. The Vikings go on their bye next week in preparation for a Monday Night showdown against the Packers in Green Bay.

The Lions entered this weekend's game with two heartbreaking losses under their belt, knocking them down a couple notches in the race for the North with the Packers. On the other side of the ball, Denver was flying high on a late-game comeback against the Dolphins, with fans heralding Tim Tebow as the team's hero. The Lions defense took charge early and maintained control through the game; sacking Tebow seven times, forcing a fumble, and intercepting a pass. Matthew Stafford powered the Lions offense to three touchdowns through the air, going 21 of 30 for 267 yards. Adding to the scoring were Maurice Morris hitting pay-dirt on a red zone rushing attempt, Cliff Avril returning a fumble, and Chris Houston returning an interception. Next week, the Lions are on their bye in preparation for a trip to Chicago.