5 notable differences since the last time the Detroit Lions played the Chicago Bears

3. The Chicago Bears could see a big injury impact the passing game 

The Detroit Lions suffered a tough injury to starting linebacker Alex Anzalone. Anzalone was their top linebacker and one of their best defenders this year, especially in coverage. One of the big issues the Lions have is their linebackers in coverage against tight ends and running backs. Their only good defender in that area was Alex Anzalone, but he is gone now.

Once he left, the Saints started to mount a huge comeback. It came with Alvin Kamara catching six passes for 58 yards, but also a Jimmy Graham touchdown and Foster Moreau having 28 yards. We already wrote that these players can expose them, and while the Saints do not have the talent at tight end, the Bears do with Cole Kmet. 

The Lions will look for Malcolm Rodriguez or Jalen Reeves-Maybin to fill in as a WILL with Jack Campbell at the MIKE and Derrick Barnes in the SAM role. This is not as good of a linebacker group, and it may be highlighted by the loss of Alim McNeil as well.