Three observations …
• A year ago at this time, the Texans and Falcons were a combined 19-2. This year, they're 4-17.
• A year ago, the Chiefs and Panthers were a combined 3-17. This year, they're 16-4.
• This year, the Patriots are 7-3. It's the fourth time in five years that they have been 7-3. The other year they were 8-2.
Two predictions …
• In another reminder that life in the NFL can be tough without Hall of Fame-bound quarterbacks, the Vikings will upset the Packers and Scott Tolzien in Green Bay.
• The Lions — yes, the Lions — will be in first place all alone in the NFC North after they beat the Bucs at home and the Bears lose at St. Louis.
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More From Star Tribune
More From Sports
Sports
Gordon, Jokic lead the Nuggets to the brink of a sweep with a 112-105 win over the Lakers in Game 3
With one championship ring and a tenacious veteran core, the Denver Nuggets are a daunting matchup for any opponent in the NBA.
Sports
Twins
Twins bring momentum into next series despite Angels Stadium struggles
The Twins haven't won a series at Angels Stadium in five years, but the Angels have won just once in their last seven games.
Twins
Five home runs, including two by Julien, power Twins past White Sox
The Twins won their fourth in a row, which is one more than the White Sox have won in their first 25 games this season. Minnesota hit back-to-back home runs twice.
Vikings
Vikings' strategy in aggressive first round: 'minimizing regret'
J.J. McCarthy, at No. 10, became the Vikings' highest pick ever spent on a quarterback. Dallas Turner, at No. 17, is the first pass rusher Minnesota has drafted in the first round since 2005.