Vikings vs. Bears: Chicago Will Crush Minnesota's Chances of Late Playoff Run

Only one game separates the Bears and Vikings in the NFC North division standings. In reality, there is more than one game between the two teams. Both teams' pass offenses are incredibly suspect and the running game isn't as dramatically in favor of Minnesota as many may think.

As a pure runner, Adrian Peterson has no equal, but as an all-purpose back, Matt Forte is approaching that same status. The edge comes on the defensive side of the ball.

Even with the Bears' issues in the secondary, they are superior to the Vikings' defensive unit.

Expect the Bears to play an even more safe and smart style on offense. I'm not sure why Jay Cutler has to be beaten to a pulp for five games before the play-calling and protections change.

It has been gradual, but two big rushing performances in a row from Matt Forte almost ensure that the Vikings will see a steady diet of the Bears' running back on Sunday Night. 

The numbers are deceiving in this matchup as the Vikings best the Bears in most of the statistical categories. This is due to the strength of schedule.

The Bears' three losses are to the Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions and New Orleans Saints; moreover, two of those games were on the road.

The Vikings' four defeats have been to Kansas City, San Diego, Detroit and Tampa Bay. This is obviously not equal to the Bears' ledger.

The Bears win, even without Julius Peppers. The Vikings can now begin to look towards the draft. That date will have to wait for the Bears.