The Chicago Bears know these last five games will determine so many things. One is whether they make the playoffs, and the other is whether they win the NFC North title. Most agree the next three weeks will determine the latter. If they can beat the Green Bay Packers in at least one of their two meetings, it gives the Bears a huge window to accomplish that goal. However, the objective won't end there. Chicago must finish strong. That in itself is daunting, as they have the San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions to end the regular season.
That last game is one they likely have circled. The Bears haven't forgotten the 52-21 drubbing the Lions handed them back in September. Getting some revenge while also possibly knocking their rivals out of the playoff chance would be extra sweet. Their chances of making that happen have just undergone a titanic shift. News broke that Detroit's star safety, Brian Branch, suffered a torn Achilles in Thursday's win over the Dallas Cowboys. He is done for the season, leaving that defense in serious trouble.
The Chicago Bears know how much Branch means to the Lions.
Only Aidan Hutchinson is a more important player on that defense. Branch was third on the team with 75 tackles, had 2.5 sacks, five QB hits, and a forced fumble. He is also their second-highest rated run defender behind only Jack Campbell. Detroit has been struggling against the run since the bye week, allowing 120 yards per game. Their pass defense hasn't been any better. That was with Branch on the field. Without him, they lose both his consistent presence and his playmaking ability.
The Chicago Bears can and should take full advantage of this. They will be at home for the rematch, which will likely take place in cold, windy weather. Their running game is one of the best in the NFL. Detroit hasn't played in such conditions all season. Add the revenge factor, and you have the makings of a big win for the Bears, which could catapult them into the postseason. Detroit has survived injuries before, but this one hits right where it hurts the most. Ben Johnson will know precisely how to take advantage.
