The Los Angeles Chargers and Chicago Bears are about to duke it out in prime time.
Before the matchup, Bears Wire managing editor Alyssa Barbieri spoke with us about Los Angeles’ opponent.
With Tyson Bagent under center, what can we expect from the Bears’ offense?
BW: Bagent was efficient in his first NFL start, where the game plan was predicated on the quick passing game and leaning on what’s been a top-five rushing attack. Bagent wasn’t asked to do much, and I expect to see a similar game plan on Sunday night. With that said, I’d like to see Bagent be a little more aggressive with downfield throws, especially against a Chargers passing defense that ranks worst in the NFL. If Los Angeles’ defense can contain Chicago’s run game, it’ll force Bagent to have to do a little more than maybe what the coaches would like.
The defense has seemed to make some strides. What did they change and what’s working?
BW: The defense has turned a corner with Matt Eberflus acting as de facto defensive coordinator since Alan Williams’ surprising resignation. In the past two weeks, opposing offenses have totaled under 240 yards and averaged just 12.5 points. It’s more than possible that the Chargers could better those totals, but since Eberflus took over calling plays, it doesn’t feel like Chicago is going to give up 30-plus points per game like the first four weeks. While there’s still plenty to be desired by the pass rush, the Bears run defense has mounted an impressive turnaround. They ranked 31st against the run last season (allowing 157.0 yards per game). This season, they’re allowing just 82.3 yards per game (fifth-best in the NFL).
What area/position of the Bears could determine the outcome of this game?
The battle at the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball will go a long way in determining the outcome of this game. Last week, Chicago dominated on both sides. They were able to keep Maxx Crosby at bay and rack up 173 yards on the ground, all while sustaining drives and taking time off the clock. On defense, they stopped Josh Jacobs and were able to provide enough pressure on Raiders quarterbacks to limit big plays and force three turnovers. The Bears will need a similar outing against the Chargers if they hope to come away with a win. The offensive line faces a tough task against Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa, while the defensive line will need to find a way to get pressure on Justin Herbert.
Who is an under-the-radar Bear that Chargers fans should know about?
Considering he was inactive from Weeks 2-5, the fact that D’Onta Foreman has stepped in and produced on the ground for Chicago makes him notable. While rookie Roschon Johnson should be back, Foreman is expected to once again lead the ground game against the Chargers. He’s coming off an impressive outing against the Raiders, where he accounted for 120 yards (89 on the ground) and three touchdowns. Foreman will play a key role in the success of the Bears’ offense, especially as rookie Tyson Bagent makes his second NFL start.
What’s your prediction for the game?
The Bears haven’t won consecutive games under head coach Matt Eberflus since his arrival, and I have a hard time believing that streak ends Sunday night against the Chargers. While Chicago and Los Angeles both have two wins on the season — along with a pair of head coaches on the hot seat — the Chargers are simply the better team in this contest. I think it’ll be close, but Los Angeles should have this one. Chargers 27, Bears 23