The Detroit Lions travel to Soldier Field on Sunday to take on the Chicago Bears in an NFC North matchup at 1:00 PM ET. The Lions are chasing the NFC’s top seed, while the Bears are aiming to end their eight-game losing streak. This divisional clash carries importance for Detroit as they look to secure a first-round playoff bye.
Detroit Lions
The Lions (12-2) are coming off a tough 48-42 loss to the Buffalo Bills that ended their 11-game winning streak. Despite the setback, Detroit remains in contention for the NFC’s top seed. Jared Goff tied a career high with five touchdown passes against Buffalo, while Amon-Ra St. Brown had a standout performance with 14 receptions for 193 yards and a touchdown.
Detroit’s offense leads the NFL, averaging 32.8 points per game. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs will step into a larger role with David Montgomery out due to a knee injury. The Lions’ offensive line, though banged up, remains a key to their success. Detroit will rely on its depth as injuries to key players like Alim McNeill and Carlton Davis III pile up.
On defense, the Lions have been solid despite recent struggles against the run. Safety Brian Branch is a critical piece of their secondary but is dealing with a calf injury. Detroit’s ability to pressure rookie quarterback Caleb Williams could dictate the game’s outcome.
Coach Dan Campbell emphasized resilience, stating, “You pick yourself up, you dust yourself off, and you go back to the basics.” The Lions know a win this week is crucial as they aim to close out the season strong and secure home-field advantage in the playoffs.
Chicago Bears
The Bears (4-10) return home after back-to-back blowout losses under interim coach Thomas Brown. Chicago has been outscored 53-0 in the first halves of its last three games, most recently falling to the Minnesota Vikings 30-12. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams has faced immense pressure behind an offensive line that has allowed an NFL-high 58 sacks.
Williams continues to develop despite the team’s struggles, stating, “You motivate yourself, you encourage yourself.” Protecting Williams will be critical, especially with injuries to starting linemen Braxton Jones and Teven Jenkins. Running back D’Andre Swift and wide receiver DJ Moore remain key offensive weapons for Chicago.
Defensively, the Bears have been inconsistent, ranking 26th against the run. They’ll face a tough test against Detroit’s rushing attack led by Gibbs. Linebackers Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards will be tasked with limiting big plays and keeping the game within reach.
The Bears’ last win came on October 13, and their season is now about building momentum for the future. A victory against a division rival could provide a spark heading into the final weeks.
Prediction
The Lions bring one of the league’s best offenses into Soldier Field, and they should be able to take advantage of Chicago’s defensive struggles. Jared Goff’s ability to spread the ball to multiple playmakers, including St. Brown and Gibbs, gives Detroit the edge. Expect the Lions’ defense to pressure Caleb Williams and force turnovers.
Chicago’s inability to protect Williams and their slow starts in recent games make this a tough matchup. While the Bears may keep it close early, Detroit’s depth and execution should carry them to a comfortable win.
- Pick: Lions 34, Bears 17
