The Chicago Bears have not acted like a team that is uncertain of how they'll approach the final week of the regular season. Head coach Ben Johnson said the starters will play. There is no debate. His reasoning is straightforward. The Bears still have a chance to clinch the #2 seed in the playoffs, potentially guaranteeing them at least two home games. That is worth a ton in their eyes, even at the risk of injuries. Granted, there is an added benefit of potential revenge on their minds after what the Detroit Lions did to them in September with a 52-21 humiliation.
However, neither of these teams is the same anymore. Detroit seems to have lost their mojo after that strong start. Their running game can't find a rhythm, and injuries once again ravage the defense. Health is the story in this game as well. The Lions' final injury report featured some doozies. Star right tackle Penei Sewell is out with an ankle injury. Linebacker Alex Anzalone has a concussion, and defensive tackle Alim McNeill has an abdominal problem. In essence, Detroit loses their best run blocker on offense and two of their three best run defenders on defense.
The Chicago Bears are almost certain to take advantage of this.
Detroit has really struggled to run the ball in recent weeks. They have no more than 70 in any of their previous three games. That was with Sewell on the field. Remember, he is the highest-graded run-blocking tackle in the NFL. Almost all of their rushing success this season came going right. That advantage is no longer available. Meanwhile, the Lions' defense has allowed at least 150 yards rushing in each of the past three games. Again, that was with Anzalone and McNeill playing. The Chicago Bears have the #3 rushing attack in the NFL.
Then you have simple motivation. Detroit's season basically ended last week at the hands of Minnesota. They have nothing to play for in this game except pride. It will be outdoors and cold. The Bears will be at home in front of a raucous crowd and have all sorts of motivation not only to win but to crush their opponents. Detroit may still win. It's the NFL and things happen. Still, it sure feels like too many things are working against them ahead of this Sunday.
