The Chicago Bears are facing a tough challenge as they prepare to take on the New Orleans Saints in a rematch of their wild-card playoff game earlier this year. The Bears quarterback, Justin Fields, is sidelined with a dislocated right thumb, leaving undrafted rookie Tyson Bagent to step in as the starter for the third consecutive game.
Bagent has had some ups and downs since taking over for Fields, struggling in a loss to the Los Angeles Chargers after showing promise in Chicago’s win over the Las Vegas Raiders. He currently has a 73.8 passer rating, throwing for 477 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions.
On the other side of the ball, the Saints have been dominant in recent matchups against the Bears. They have won their past six regular-season meetings as well as their most recent postseason clash. The Bears haven’t beaten the Saints in New Orleans since 1991 and last won on the road against them in 2005 during a game played at LSU’s Tiger Stadium due to Hurricane Katrina.
The Saints will rely on their potent running game led by Alvin Kamara and the versatile quarterback Tayson Hill. Last week, the Saints’ running game was particularly effective, gaining 161 yards on the ground. The Bears’ defense, however, has been stout against the run, allowing just 78.8 yards rushing per game.
Both teams are dealing with some key injuries. The Bears’ left tackle, Braxton Jones, is in the process of returning from injured reserve, while safety Eddie Jackson has been dealing with a foot injury. The Saints have linebacker Ty Summers and wide receiver Lynn Bowden Jr. both missing practice time this week due to a concussion, hamstring, and illness, respectively.
In terms of statistics and notable performances, the Bears fired their running backs coach, David Walker, adding to the coaching shakeup that saw defensive coordinator Alan Williams resign in September. The team also acquired pass rusher Montez Sweat from Washington, hoping to bolster their defense that has recorded a league-low 10 sacks.
For the Saints, quarterback Derek Carr has been in good form, passing for 310 yards and two touchdowns without an interception last week. Running back Kamara had a solid outing as well, accumulating 110 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns. Defensive end Carl Granderson has been a force on defense, leading the team with 5.5 sacks and nine tackles for loss.
In fantasy football, Kamara has been a standout performer, recording 100 scrimmage yards in his last three games and leading all running backs with 39 catches this season.
As the teams prepare to face off, the Saints are favored by 8 1/2 points according to FanDuel SportsBook. It will be a challenging task for the Bears to come away with a victory against a Saints team that has had their number in recent matchups.
Overall, this game promises to be an intriguing battle between two teams with different aspirations. The Saints will look to continue their dominance over the Bears, while the Bears will be seeking redemption and a chance to turn their season around. The outcome of this rematch will significantly impact the playoff picture in the NFC, making it a game worth watching.
