First Take
First Take

Oct 23, 2026 · 46 min

NFC North race exposes contenders’ defining strengths

Hour 2: Who will win the NFC North?

The episode tests Chicago, Minnesota, and Green Bay’s paths to the division while connecting that debate to quarterback pressure and Dallas’ instability.

3 key takeaways
  1. 1Chicago’s control of possession and Caleb Williams’ return strengthen its case in a crowded NFC North race.
  2. 2Arch Manning’s regression raises a sharper question than rankings: whether Texas can develop a future top NFL pick.
  3. 3Brian Schottenheimer’s confidence collides with criticism of Dallas’ effort, leadership, and disappointing record.

Don't miss

The panel distinguishes between Arch Manning being a solid college quarterback and showing the traits of a projected top NFL pick.

The brief

Chicago’s win over New England reopens the NFC North race, with Caleb Williams’ return, dominant possession, and the late-season schedule shaping the panel’s argument.

The Arch Manning debate turns on whether his struggles belong to the quarterback, Texas’ system, Steve Sarkisian’s coaching, or expectations attached to the Manning name.

The panel previews Kansas City-Seattle and Dallas-Philadelphia, then challenges Brian Schottenheimer’s claim that he is a great coach amid questions about Dallas’ effort and leadership.

Marcus Spears’ list of the NFL’s scariest teams starts with Green Bay and sparks debate over Chicago, Jacksonville, Houston, Baltimore, Kansas City, and San Francisco.

The sharpest exchange asks whether Arch Manning can become more than a solid college quarterback, especially with Ole Miss next as a test of his improvement.

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