The Chicago Bears and Philadelphia Eagles don't have what you'd call a traditional rivalry. While both are NFC teams, they don't meet often and actually tend to share a lot of similarities. However, that hasn't stopped some crazy stuff from happening when they face off. There was the infamous Fog Bowl in 1988 when the game was played in an impenetrable mist. You had Brian Griese's wild comeback in 2007. Last but certainly not least, there was the brutal Double Doink in 2018.
Something always seems to happen when these two teams get together. It sounds like more madness is on the way. New weather reports suggest things could get somewhat interesting at Lincoln Financial Field. While it won't be overly cold, the problem will be the wind. Gusts of anywhere from 30-40 mph are expected. Put simply?
Pass at your own risk.
There is a strong likelihood that throws will be pushed all over the place in this game. That means whichever team manages to run the ball well may have a good chance to take advantage.
The Chicago Bears have had more success in this department.
Though the Eagles still have Saquon Barkley, it's been the Chicago Bears who have found an identity running the ball this season. They are 2nd in rushing yards. Some of that is thanks to Caleb Williams' scrambling ability, but not nearly as much as Justin Fields in 2022 or 2023. D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai have been a highly capable pairing. Friday presents an interesting challenge. Philadelphia is 18th against the run this year, but they've been stiffer against it over the past five weeks, allowing over 100 yards only twice.
There is no question that Vic Fangio will make it his mission to stop Chicago's ground game, hoping to put the pressure on Williams to carry the load. Doing so in those conditions isn't ideal. No doubt the Bears hope to do the same against Philly's offense. Unfortunately, their injury-decimated linebacking corp will make that a tall order.
