Has the Chicago Bears luck in 2020 finally run out?
As I write this, the Green Bay Packers and the San Francisco 49ers prepare to play in the Thursday night contest despite both teams dealing with some COVID-19 issues. On paper, it appears that the 49ers are going to be at a bigger disadvantage than the Packers, but that could even out some if the Packers running back Aaron Jones is unable to play for a third consecutive week. As a Chicago Bears fan who sees the Packers get ridiculous calls from refs, this is not surprising.
Earlier in the year when outbreaks were happening with teams, the league either forced an earlier bye week (see Titans/Steelers) or delayed the game to Monday or Tuesday. As of now, neither of these things are happening for the 49ers who will be without rookie standout wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams and sophomore wide receiver Deebo Samuel. Good luck finding a way to win this one 49ers.
The Chicago Bears could use a bye week due to COVID-19
If this was not enough to help the Packers win in Week 9 and take a full-game lead over the Chicago Bears in the NFC North, now the Chicago Bears are dealing with their own COVID-19 issues. Jason Spriggs was placed on the COVID/Reserve list as he tested positive. Germain Ifedi was also placed on that list, but might be back for the game on Sunday.
Then today Cody Whitehair tested positive and the Chicago Bears shut down Halas Hall.
Word is Cody Whitehair, who did not participate in practice on Wednesday but was present, might not be the only addition to the reserve/COVID-19 list. We'll see what develops further.https://t.co/OjhykLqoAU
— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) November 5, 2020
It would seem that a bye week for the Chicago Bears would be beneficial for the team right now, but there is one problem. The Titans already had their bye week (adjusted during their COVID issues) and therefore the NFL could not adjust the schedule now unless the league creates an additional 18th week for COVID-related rescheduled games.
Remember, the Titans already had their bye week in early October as they were dealing with their own COVID-19 issues. So a full reschedule of this weekend's game, if ultimately deemed necessary, would require the NFL tacking on a Week 18 in January.
— Dan Wiederer (@danwiederer) November 5, 2020
Honestly, it does not seem fair that the league was able to make adjustments for one team, but now will not be able to make those same adjustments for the Chicago Bears. If you have seen the team’s injury report from Wednesday, the team could use a week to rest and get healthy. I know that is not how this works and it is not the Titans’ fault the Bears are now testing positive, but if any team should have some understanding and empathy of the situation it should be them.
#Bears Wednesday Injury Report pic.twitter.com/yXeXjQgv2m
— Bears Communications (@BearsPR) November 4, 2020
It will be interesting to see if the Chicago Bears can even come up with enough players to suit up on the offensive line. Whitehair was not likely to play this week anyway, but with him, Spriggs and Ifedi dealing with COVID-related issues, it might not be long before other offensive linemen are added to this list. If that happens, Ryan Pace and the Bears might be calling you for a tryout as long as you stand 6’3″ or taller and weigh in over 300 pounds. Yikes.
Although the NFL is not purposefully gifting the Packers an easier week in Week 9, it sure does feel that the Chicago Bears are once again going to get the short end of the stick while the Packers find a way to play a weaker opponent as they are missing three starters. I also know this hypothetical situation sounds like I am whining, and you are right, I am. However, this team needs all the help it can get and when forces seem to be against them, one can’t help but be upset.