The Chicago Bears finally broke through on Thursday night with a big 40-20 win over the Washington Commanders. It was a convincing showing from a team that played with effort and intensity. For the time being, the win is merely a moral victory. The Bears are still 1-4 and considered one of the worst teams in the league. However, sometimes it only takes a little momentum to flip the script. If they could get a win next weekend at home, that might be the start of something.
Right on cue, it appears some good fortune came their way. Chicago will host their division rival Vikings next Sunday. Minnesota fell to 1-4 this weekend with a loss to Kansas City. That was bad enough. It got much worse when Justin Jefferson, their superstar wide receiver, left midway through the game with a hamstring injury and didn't return. Anybody who knows the NFL understands hamstring problems for wide receivers can be dangerous. There is a reasonable chance Jefferson may not play next weekend, which would be a massive blow to an already reeling team.
Here is what former NFL doctor David Chao had to say.
"Could linger multiple weeks depending on severity - tough to play through and potential for missed games - slipped despite playing on turf field."
The Chicago Bears have a big opportunity in front of them.
Minnesota is not the same team they were last season. They're struggling to close games out and continue to look weak in the trenches. Jefferson was a primary reason they beat the Bears twice last season. With him out of the picture and no Dalvin Cook to help on the ground, they may be unable to put up tons of points as expected. That could be especially true if Chicago starts getting some starters in the secondary back healthy. Jaylon Johnson already said he plans to play. Kyler Gordon is eligible to come off Injured Reserve. Maybe Eddie Jackson will be ready to go as well.
Nothing is guaranteed with the Chicago Bears. One win doesn't suddenly give them the benefit of the doubt. Still, the situation is unfolding in their favor. If they can beat Minnesota, they reach 2-4 and will host the equally struggling Las Vegas Raiders the following week. A win there would give them a chance to reach .500 against the Chargers in Los Angeles. By that point, momentum would be on their side. It will be interesting to see if Jefferson tries to battle through the injury, hoping to help the Vikings save their season.
