Keys To Victory: Chicago Bears Face Their Toughest Test Yet
By Usayd Koshul
In what was a statement win for the Chicago Bears over the Detroit Lions last week, the attention now turns to Sunday Night, where the Chicago Bears will host the Minnesota Vikings in a primetime matchup.
Perhaps the most critical game on the Chicago Bears schedule so far, the winner of this game will likely have one hand on the NFC North crown. The loser will have to win most of their divisional games down the stretch in order to have a chance at making the playoffs.
Much like weeks eight and nine, the Chicago Bears played a complete game. While the kicking game could have been better, the Bears avoided making any major mistakes, which greatly benefited this team. Additionally, the defense held on, when the Lions tried to force a late second-half comeback, including scoring 12 points in the fourth quarter.
What makes this primetime game tough for the Bears is the fact that Minnesota has as complete of a roster as the Bears do. On offense, Minnesota features quarterback Kirk Cousins, wide receivers Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen, and tight end Kyle Rudolph. On defense, Minnesota has a core that consists of Everson Griffen, Anthony Barr, Danielle Hunter, and Harrison Smith. Like the Bears who have experienced multiple years of continuity on the defensive side of the ball, so have the Vikings.
Each week, we’ll be previewing the Bears regular season matchup. Additionally, we’ll examine what the Bears must do to win. What are the key players on the opposing team that the Bears will need to stop? Each week, will the offense or defense make a bigger impact?