A Chicago Bears rival seems to sustain a catastrophic injury.

This season, the NFC North is more packed than ever. The Minnesota Vikings have likely been the biggest surprise, even though everyone anticipated that the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers would lead the pace. They got off to a 5-1 start and tied for the division lead with journeyman QB Sam Darnold. They still have two games left against the Chicago Bears in the upcoming weeks. Unfortunately, following a major incident on Thursday Night Football against the Los Angeles Rams, Minnesota’s momentum is in grave risk of being halted.Right at the end of the first half, a defender landed on the left leg of star left tackle Christian Darrisaw, appearing to cave in his knee. He immediately left the game and was declared out shortly after. Initial analysis from experts suggests he suffered an MCL injury. The hope is the knee didn’t suffer any damage besides that, which means he might be able to return in a few weeks. Otherwise, he could be looking at a long absence.That is five weeks away. David Chao, a former NFL doctor, says it looked like mid or high-grade. That would mean Darrisaw could miss 4-6 weeks or seven or more. It means there is a possibility the Chicago Bears may not play against the Vikings left tackle in their first meeting. That could be a huge advantage in their efforts to stop such a potent offense. It doesn’t even account for Minnesota’s upcoming games against teams like Jacksonville and Tennessee, who have potent pass rushes. No matter how you spin it, this injury could benefit the Bears in a tight division race. Replacing players like Darrisaw is almost impossible. Kevin O’Connell is a great coach, but even he is at the mercy of the talent available to him.