Four Verts: Bears play with no pressure against Packers, Lions should relax, and meet the top underperforming team of 2025

As December rolls in, our Four Verts roundup highlights one team thriving, two contenders grappling with setbacks, and the standout underperformer of the season.

Bears thriving with unexpected momentum

Ben Johnsons first year in Chicago is exceeding expectations. The Bears may not dominate the league, but their performances have propelled them to the NFCs top seed heading into December. The team has clearly advanced from last year, and Caleb Williams appears to be a quarterback who can develop into a superstar. Johnson has instilled a defined offensive identity, and now the team faces a critical final stretch of the regular season.

After an 0-2 start, the Bears have gone 9-1, posting top-10 offensive metrics in yards per drive, points per drive, and explosive plays. Their rushing game has been particularly impressive. The contrast from last seasons struggles is stark, illustrated by their Thanksgiving win over the Eagles, which followed a disastrous game management performance against the Lions the previous year. While the passing game still has inconsistencies, the team shows promise for continued growth if key players stay healthy.

Chicago now heads to Lambeau Field for a showdown against the Packers, a true test of their progress. This matchup promises to be an exciting challenge for Williams and the Bears.

Lions and Frank Ragnow: time to pause

Injuries, roster changes, and the natural wear of extended success have hit Detroit. At 7-5, the Lions are still in contention, but recent struggles have highlighted vulnerabilities. Veteran center Frank Ragnows attempted comeback after retirement was halted due to a severe hamstring injury, emphasizing the need for both the player and the team to regroup. Detroits offensive line has lacked continuity, and rushing to reintegrate Ragnow mid-season was impractical. The team now has a chance to reset and address issues without drastic measures.

Chiefs remain competitive despite setbacks

Kansas Citys season has been defined by close losses, leaving them at 6-6. While their defense has faltered, the offense led by Patrick Mahomes remains elite. Over the last ten weeks, the Chiefs have ranked top in points and yards per drive, with Mahomes performing at an MVP level. If they reach the playoffs, they remain a formidable opponent, but their defensive lapses must be addressed for a realistic Super Bowl push.

Cardinals: the most competitive underachiever

At 3-9, Arizona has struggled, yet the team has been surprisingly competitive. Despite seven one-score losses, their overall point differential outside a few blowouts is positive. Jacoby Brissetts play since Week 6 has improved offensive efficiency, though turnovers and a struggling defense have kept the Cardinals from winning. While not a season to celebrate, they have shown flashes that could be a foundation for the offseason.

Commentary: A Closer Look at the NFL Landscape in December

As December unfolds, the NFL season reaches a critical juncture, with some teams exceeding expectations, others facing setbacks, and a few struggling despite competitive efforts. While the Bears' unexpected surge stands out as a story of hope, the Lions and Chiefs are navigating turbulent waters. The Cardinals, despite underachievement, have shown promise. Let’s take a deeper dive into the context behind these developments.

Chicago Bears: A New Era in the Making

The Bears' turnaround this season is nothing short of remarkable. After an underwhelming start, they’ve turned things around with a 9-1 record, showcasing a powerful offense and a solid defense. Caleb Williams' development into a potential superstar, paired with Ben Johnson's offensive philosophy, offers real hope for the future. The team’s ability to overcome last year’s struggles—most notably in key moments against teams like the Eagles—signals tangible growth. However, their real test lies in maintaining consistency through December, and with the Packers on the horizon, they must prove they can compete with playoff-caliber teams.

Detroit Lions: Time for Reflection and Recalibration

The Lions’ season, while still in the hunt at 7-5, is unraveling due to injuries and a lack of cohesion. Frank Ragnow’s injury is a heavy blow, as his leadership and stability on the offensive line are crucial for Detroit’s success. The Lions' offense, once dominant, has been inconsistent, and without the ability to find continuity, their playoff hopes may fade. It’s time for Detroit to pause, regroup, and address their vulnerabilities—whether that involves roster adjustments or giving key players the time to heal and recalibrate.

Kansas City Chiefs: An Uphill Battle to Super Bowl Glory

The Chiefs' 6-6 record may not reflect their potential, but their offensive firepower remains as dangerous as ever, led by the MVP-caliber Patrick Mahomes. Their defense, however, continues to be their Achilles’ heel, and this vulnerability may cost them in the playoffs. As they push toward the postseason, Kansas City must address these defensive gaps to keep their Super Bowl aspirations alive. If they do, they’ll be one of the most dangerous teams come January.

Arizona Cardinals: A Competitive Team Struggling to Close

At 3-9, the Cardinals are one of the more perplexing teams of the season. Despite their record, they’ve been competitive, with several close losses, most of which came by a single score. Jacoby Brissett has given their offense a spark, but turnovers and defensive lapses have been their undoing. While the playoffs are out of reach, the Cardinals' ability to remain competitive despite these setbacks indicates potential. The offseason will be critical as they look to build on this foundation and shift their trajectory moving forward.

Final Thoughts: The Playoff Picture Starts to Take Shape

With just a few weeks left in the regular season, the playoff race is intensifying. Teams like the Bears and Chiefs will need to capitalize on their strengths, while others like the Lions and Cardinals must navigate challenges if they hope to finish strong. As December progresses, it’s clear that every game will matter, and each team has its own path to postseason contention or disappointment.

Sources:

• Four Verts: Bears head to Lambeau with house money, Lions need to take a breather, and here's the best worst team of 2025