On Sunday afternoon, two teams relying on rookie quarterbacks will face off in a pivotal matchup. The New England Patriots (2-7; 3-5-1 ATS) and the Chicago Bears (4-4; 4-3-1 ATS) are set to meet at 1:00 p.m. EST in Soldier Field. Their last encounter in 2022 ended in a decisive 33-14 victory for the Bears. Will the Patriots manage to turn the tables this week?
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Continue reading for the Patriots vs. Bears prediction.
New England’s Offensive Woes
Despite their efforts, the Patriots face significant challenges. Currently averaging 15.7 points per game, they rank 30th in the league and struggle to pose a threat. Drake Maye has showcased moments of brilliance, but it’s evident that New England requires a stronger offensive lineup moving forward. Presently, they hold the lowest average yards per game. The offensive line has been a liability, allowing the third-most sacks in the NFL. The Patriots find themselves 31st in yards per pass attempt and last in passing yards per game. Although they rank 14th in yards per carry, being behind on the scoreboard hinders their ground game. Their inability to advance the ball effectively makes their solid ball security irrelevant. Fans are left wondering if the Patriots can ignite their offense anytime soon.
On the defensive side, the Patriots’ unit faces scrutiny, often spending too much time on the field. They allow 24.1 points per game and rank poorly across various metrics. New England’s defense sits at 17th in yards allowed per carry, 23rd in yards per pass attempt, and 26th in yards per play. The group has also recorded just eight takeaways, ranking 29th in the league. They have managed to keep only two teams under 20 points this season. Will they step up against the Bears this Sunday?
Injury Report – Vederian Lowe (questionable); Keion White (questionable); Christian Elliss (questionable); Kyle Duggar (questionable); Marte Mapu (questionable)
Chicago’s Need for Change
The Bears experienced a tough loss two weeks ago, culminating in a Hail Mary that featured an unnecessary taunt during the play. They followed with a disappointing 29-9 defeat against the Cardinals. However, Chicago returns home this week, boasting an undefeated record at Soldier Field. This game could serve as a much-needed turnaround for a defense that has successfully limited opponents to the fifth-fewest points per game. That is, unless they cannot improve upon allowing 5.0 yards per carry. On the bright side, the Bears rank eighth in the league for the fewest passing yards allowed per game. With 15 takeaways (tied for 4th) and 23 sacks (11th), can they erase the disappointments of the last two games?
On the offensive end, the Bears continue to struggle, even with first-overall pick Caleb Williams leading the charge. Averaging only 21.5 points per game feels like a miracle given their offensive inefficiencies. They rank 30th in yards per play and 28th in total yards. Additionally, the Bears sit at 25th in yards per carry and 26th in yards per pass attempt, with their offensive line permitting the fifth-most sacks. There is a glimmer of hope, though; Chicago’s offense has only turned the ball over eight times, marking the seventh-lowest turnover rate in the NFL. Will turnovers play a decisive role in Sunday’s game?
Injury Report – Braxton Jones (questionable); Darnell Wright (questionable); Jaquan Brisker (questionable); Kyler Gordon (questionable)
Betting Insights for New England Patriots vs. Chicago Bears
