Rising star in the NFC North?

From the Chicago Tribune: It took only three plays for Bears rookie Jordan Howard to stake his claim to the starting running back job. With Jeremy Langford in uniform, back from a sprained right ankle and watching from the sideline, Howard exploded for a 69-yard run. It was the Bears' longest run from scrimmage since Kahlil Bell had a 72-yard carry in late 2009.

MANO-A-MANO

Vikings OT T.J. Clemmings vs. Bears LB Pernell McPhee

WHO WON?

McPhee and the Bears had their way with the Vikings offensive line, pressuring QB Sam Bradford all night. McPhee had a sack and won this battle.

PLAY OF THE GAME

QUICK SHOT

The Bears took a 20-3 lead in the third quarter on an 11-yard TD pass from Jay Cutler (6) to Alshon Jeffery (17). Cutler faked the handoff to Jordan Howard (24) as Jeffery cut inside Vikings CB Trae Waynes (26) and in front of S Anthony Harris (41). Cutler threaded the needle to his favorite receiver.

THE QUOTE

"We didn't make any plays. They made all the plays. It's as simple as that."

— Vikings coach Mike Zimmer