LIVE FROM MINNEAPOLIS: BEARS STRUGGLE AHEAD OF WEEK 16 MATCHUP AGAINST THE LIONS
The Chicago Bears, still searching for answers after firing head coach Matt Eberflus, are heading into their Week 16 showdown with the Detroit Lions amidst historical struggles on both sides of the ball.
Offensive Woes and Defensive Collapse
Since parting ways with Eberflus following their Thanksgiving Day loss to Detroit, the Bears’ offensive output has hit historic lows. They haven’t scored a single point in the first half of their last three games—a feat not seen since 1933. Meanwhile, the defense has allowed a staggering 68 points in two games under interim play-caller Eric Washington.
Despite these challenges, Sunday’s game against the Lions provides an intriguing opportunity, as Detroit’s injury-plagued defense could offer a chance for Caleb Williams to regain his rhythm. The Lions, with 21 players on injured reserve, are missing key defensive pieces, including Alim McNeill (torn ACL), Carlton Davis III (fractured jaw), Aidan Hutchinson, and Malcolm Rodriguez.
Can the Bears’ Offense Rebound?
Quarterback Caleb Williams could face additional hurdles as injuries continue to ravage Chicago’s offensive line. Tackle Braxton Jones, despite practicing fully this week, remains in concussion protocol, while guard Teven Jenkins is listed as questionable with a calf injury.
“Can Caleb find his groove? That’s the big question heading into Sunday,” said analyst Adam Hoge.
Predictions: Lions vs. Bears
The consensus among experts paints a grim picture for the Bears, with most predicting a dominant performance by the Lions:
- Adam Hoge (7-7): “The Lions are simply the better team. Detroit will pull away from a Bears offense that’s severely slumping.”
Prediction: Lions 27, Bears 17 - Patrick Norton (8-6): “Chicago’s offense has been unimpressive, and their defense is struggling under Washington. Detroit won’t let up.”
Prediction: Lions 40, Bears 17 - Mark Carman (11-3): “The Bears might win another game, but probably not this year. The Lions have too much to play for.”
Prediction: Lions 27, Bears 13 - Corey Wootton (9-5): “Detroit is a well-oiled machine gearing up for the playoffs.”
Prediction: Lions 31, Bears 14 - Greg Braggs Jr. (8-6): “Bear Weather won’t tip the scales. Detroit has the look of an NFC Super Bowl representative.”
Prediction: Lions 30, Bears 20 - Stephen Nicholas (9-5): “The Lions stomp on teams and don’t let up. If the Bears start slow, backups could see meaningful minutes.”
Prediction: Lions 37, Bears 14 - Kevin Kaduk (8-6): “One team has something to play for, and the other doesn’t. Detroit is simply much better.”
Prediction: Lions 27, Bears 16
Final Thoughts
As the Lions (12-2) push for the NFC’s No. 1 seed, they’re expected to dominate a Bears team still reeling from inconsistency and injuries. The matchup kicks off Sunday at noon CT at Soldier Field. For Bears fans, the silver lining may come in the form of observing potential head coaching candidate Ben Johnson, the Lions’ offensive coordinator, who has drawn attention as a leading candidate for Chicago’s 2025 vacancy.
