Is Chicago Bears defense in position to dominate Week 7?
When thinking of the New Orleans Saints, that is never an easy task on defense. However, the Chicago Bears may have an easier test this week
While the Chicago Bears defense did struggle in London and lost Akiem Hicks, it is still the teams top unit. It is still a unit that can carry a team to the playoffs. Getting a bye week to rest up, and knowing that they have to lead the way, the Bears defense should be in a good position to bounce back and send a message, similarly to when they shut down the Vikings offense.
Fortunately for the Bears, when it comes to the New Orleans Saints, they may not see the full Saints offensive attack. We know that Drew Brees has been out. However, the Saints are 4-0 without Brees.
This is not necessarily because their offense has exploded like the Saints of old, but the offense has done just fine. Teddy Bridgewater has not turned the ball over, and when you have the play calling of Sean Payton, the elusiveness of Alvin Kamara and the consistency of Michael Thomas, you can find just enough points to win some games.
However, heading into Sunday the Saints are likely to be without Kamara. Kamara has not practiced this week and has a “high ankle issue.” They are not saying sprain, but high ankle is significant.
Kamara adds a presence not only on the ground but through the air. His versatility opens up the offense for everyone else and gives Bridgewater an easy check-down option.
On top of Kamara, Jared Cook is unlikely to play either. He has not been an impact player but is one less big name to defend. This really makes it easy to shift all attention to Michael Thomas. Force anyone else on this roster to beat them.
The Saints offense has had success, but they have been a below-average unit without Brees. Turnovers scored 14 points against Seattle, and despite a solid performance against Tampa Bay, they scored 13 points against Dallas and Jacksonville.
Next. 5 Bears matchups that must win week 7. dark
They rely on their defense, lack of turnovers and just enough on offense to get by without Brees. Without Kamara, and against an elite defense, will the offense have just enough? Can the Bears shut out a Saints offense?