The Chicago Bears (4-3) are set to face the Cincinnati Bengals (3-5) in a Week 9 showdown at Paycor Stadium. After a setback against the Ravens, the Bears aim to regain their winning momentum. This preview dives into the key aspects of the game, providing insights and predictions.
Chicago’s recent performance includes a four-game winning streak against formidable opponents like the Cowboys and Saints. Meanwhile, Cincinnati’s season has been turbulent, especially with Joe Burrow’s injury. The acquisition of veteran quarterback Joe Flacco has brought some stability, but inconsistency remains.
This article will delve into the Bears’ offensive challenges with D’Andre Swift’s absence, the performance of quarterback Caleb Williams, and the crucial defensive strategies needed to contain Ja’Marr Chase. Key matchups, fun facts, and final predictions are all covered to keep you informed.
Bears’ Offensive Strategy: Overcoming Key Injuries
The Bears’ offense faces a significant challenge with running back D’Andre Swift sidelined due to a groin injury. Swift’s absence marks his first missed game since joining the team. His impressive average of 66.3 rushing yards per game will be hard to replace.
Rookie Kyle Monangai steps up to fill the void, with Brittain Brown elevated from the practice squad to provide additional support. The Bears’ passing game is also affected by injuries, but the return of Rome Odunze, DJ Moore, and Olamide Zaccheaus offers a boost. However, Luther Burden III will miss the game due to a concussion.
Caleb Williams, the Bears’ quarterback, has shown promise, with 1,636 passing yards and nine touchdowns. Williams has focused on reducing sacks, improving his comfort and confidence within the offense.
“It’s extreme focus,” Williams said. “I don’t want to be one of those guys in Year 6 where I’m one of the highest sacked ever in history. I’ve got a great group in front of me… It’s just us all being on the same page.”
The Bears aim to improve their red-zone efficiency and minimize penalties, crucial for capitalizing on scoring opportunities against the Bengals’ vulnerable defense.
Bengals’ Defensive Weaknesses: Opportunities for the Bears
The Bengals’ defense has struggled significantly, allowing an average of 31.6 points per game, ranking last in the NFL. They also concede a league-high 407.9 total yards per game, making them susceptible to both rushing and passing attacks.
Cincinnati’s defense has allowed at least 27 points in seven consecutive games. They have permitted the most red-zone touchdowns (26) and possessions (37) in the league, indicating a critical weakness in their ability to defend near the goal line.
The Bears must exploit these vulnerabilities by establishing a strong running game and ensuring Caleb Williams has time to make accurate throws. Rome Odunze’s matchup against Bengals cornerback D.J. Turner will be pivotal, as Odunze aims to capitalize on his recent 100-yard performance.
Key matchup: Bears receiver Rome Odunze vs. Bengals cornerback D.J. Turner
Odunze will look to build on his second 100-yard game of the season against Turner, who leads the NFL with 13 pass breakups. After catching five TD passes in the first four games, Odunze has been held out of the end zone in the last three contests.
Bengals’ Offensive Threats: Containing Ja’Marr Chase
The Bears’ defense faces the challenge of containing Bengals receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who leads the league with 99 targets and 70 receptions, ranking second with 720 receiving yards. The Bears bolstered their secondary by signing defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson and anticipate the return of cornerback Tyrique Stevenson from injury.
These reinforcements are timely, considering Chase’s exceptional receiving abilities. Johnson emphasized the need for a comprehensive defensive strategy to slow him down.
“You talk about a complete problem, he is that,” Johnson said. “I don’t know how much you can slow him down. I don’t know anything he doesn’t do well… It’s all-hands-on-deck to try to slow him down.”
The biggest question is who will start at quarterback for the Bengals. Joe Flacco’s shoulder injury makes him questionable, potentially leading to Jake Browning starting.
Joe Flacco vs. Jake Browning: Quarterback Impact
The Bengals’ offensive dynamics hinge on their quarterback situation. Joe Flacco’s recent performance has revitalized their offense, passing for 784 yards with seven touchdowns. Flacco has heavily targeted Chase, completing 38 passes for 346 yards and two touchdowns.
“They have gone through the quarterback carousel, but since Flacco has been there, they’ve looked like a different team,” Johnson said. “They’re scoring points. Their running game has come alive over the last couple weeks.”
If Flacco cannot play, Jake Browning will step in. Browning has shown capability, leading the NFL in completion percentage in 2023 with 1,936 passing yards and 12 touchdowns when Burrow was injured.
Key matchup: Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson vs. Bengals receiver Ja’Marr Chase
Stevenson’s size and physicality will be crucial against Chase. While Chase has caught 38 passes in the last three games, none has been for more than 19 yards, highlighting the Bears’ need to limit big plays.
Fun Facts: Bears vs. Bengals History
- The Bears entered Week 9 leading the NFL with 16 takeaways and a plus-10 turnover differential.
- The Bears have won the last three matchups against the Bengals, winning in 2013, 2017, and 2021.
- Bears defenders Montez Sweat, Andrew Billings, and T.J. Edwards all will be playing in their 100th NFL regular-season games Sunday.
- Bears pass game coordinator Press Taylor is the younger brother of Bengals head coach Zac Taylor.
- The Bengals are 1-3 over the past two seasons when scoring at least 38 points. The rest of the league is 57-4-2.
Conclusion: Prediction for Bears vs. Bengals
The Bears vs. Bengals Week 9 game presents intriguing matchups and strategic challenges. With key injuries on both sides, the quarterback situation for the Bengals remains a significant factor. Chicago’s ability to exploit Cincinnati’s defensive weaknesses and contain Ja’Marr Chase will determine their success.
The Bears’ defense must force turnovers and pressure the quarterback, whether it’s Flacco or Browning. Offensively, establishing a strong running game and capitalizing on red-zone opportunities will be essential. The performance of Kyle Monangai in Swift’s absence will be closely watched.
Given the Bengals’ defensive struggles and the Bears’ improving offense, Chicago has the potential to secure a victory. However, the Bengals’ offensive firepower, especially if Flacco plays, cannot be underestimated. Expect a close, high-scoring game with the Bears edging out a narrow win.
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