The Chicago Bears suffered a tough setback last week in Baltimore. It left many wondering if they can rebound this week against the Cincinnati Bengals. The last time they lost after starting the season 4-2, they imploded, going 5-12. Many remain skeptical they have the mental toughness to handle situations like this. On paper, this is a game they should win. Cincinnati is playing with an injured 40-year-old quarterback and has one of the worst defenses in the NFL. Even if it's on the road, the Bears are strong enough to take care of business in this game.
It gets even better. As bad as the Bengals defense already was, it's about to look even worse. Their superstar pass rusher, Trey Hendrickson, is doubtful for the game with a hip problem. Remember, the Bengals only have 11 sacks as a team. Hendrickson has four of them. The same is true for Logan Wilson, probably their best linebacker for the past several years. Not only is he dealing with a calf injury, but he recently requested a trade. Things are not great on that side of the ball. Cincinnati is already dead last in points and yards allowed.
The Chicago Bears rolled the last time they faced a terrible defense.
That was against the Dallas Cowboys last month when they cruised to a 31-14 victory on the back of Caleb Williams, who tossed four touchdowns. It will be on him to deliver again on Sunday. The running game might not be able to lead the way this time. D'Andre Swift is out with a groin injury, leaving the job in the hands of rookie Kyle Monangai. Don't be surprised if Ben Johnson decides to craft a game plan around Williams passing more often. The absence of Hendrickson might embolden him to do so.
Scoring is essential in this game. Cincinnati is stacked with playmakers at wide receiver. Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins are certain to get their catches against the Chicago Bears' undermanned secondary. This is one of those games where the offense will have to win it. They have no excuses. The matchup favors them in every category. If they can't put up at least 28 points, it is a significant failure.
