Seattle Seahawks vs Chicago Bears – NFL Preview – Dec 26, 2024
The Seattle Seahawks visit the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field in a primetime Thursday night matchup. Seattle enters at 8-7, holding onto slim playoff hopes as the second team in the NFC West. Chicago, at 4-11, is out of postseason contention and looking to snap a nine-game losing streak.
Seattle needs a win to stay alive in the NFC playoff race, while the Bears are focused on building for the future with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. These teams last met in the preseason in 2022, with the Bears winning 27-11. Both teams have significant injuries heading into the game, which could affect their performances.
Seahawks Preview – Seahawks Fighting for Their Season
The Seahawks are coming off a narrow 27-24 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, a game where Geno Smith threw for 314 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. Seattle’s passing game ranks fifth in the NFL, averaging 244.5 yards per game. However, their rushing attack remains near the bottom of the league, producing just 91.9 yards per game.
Defensively, Seattle has been inconsistent, ranking 15th in total yards allowed but struggling against the run. Injuries have piled up for the Seahawks, with running back Kenneth Walker III and tight end Noah Fant among those unavailable. Linebacker Ernest Jones and cornerback Devon Witherspoon lead a unit that must step up against Chicago’s young offense.
Seattle’s playoff hopes hinge on winning their final two games and getting help from other results. Despite their injury concerns, the Seahawks have the talent to win this matchup, but they must avoid turnovers and capitalize on Chicago’s defensive weaknesses.
Bears Preview – Bears Focused on Development
The Bears are in rebuilding mode but have seen promising performances from rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. He threw for 334 yards and two touchdowns in last week’s 34-17 loss to Detroit. Wide receiver Rome Odunze, another first-round pick, continues to develop chemistry with Williams, highlighted by a 77-yard outing against the Lions.
Chicago’s defense has struggled, allowing 359.3 yards per game, including 134.1 on the ground. Injuries to key players like Travis Homer and Elijah Hicks have further weakened the unit. The Bears’ inability to stop the run or pressure opposing quarterbacks has been a major issue throughout their nine-game losing streak.
Despite their record, Chicago has remained competitive in spurts. Developing young talent and avoiding mistakes will be their focus against a Seattle team desperate for a win. The Bears will look to build momentum heading into the offseason with a strong showing at home.
Betting Prediction
The Seahawks are 4-point road favorites, with the total set at 42 points. Seattle’s passing attack and playoff urgency make them the better pick against a struggling Bears defense. However, Chicago’s offense, led by Caleb Williams, could keep the game closer than expected.
Expect Seattle to secure a win and cover the spread, with the total likely going under due to both teams’ inconsistencies and injuries on offense. The Seahawks’ defense should be able to limit Chicago’s scoring opportunities, especially in critical moments.
Pick: Seahawks -4, Under 42