Game Details
- Match-up: Chicago Bears (2-2) @ Carolina Panthers (2-2)
- Location: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC
- Date: Sunday, October 5th
- Time: 01:00 PM Eastern
- TV: FOX
The Chicago Bears take to the road after their embarrassing loss to the Green Bay Packers to take on a team coming off their own embarrassing loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Who will bounce back, and who will continue the downward trend? It may all come down to injuries.
Injuries
The Chicago Bears are facing some serious injuries on their offensive line this week, with Center Roberto Garza doubtful, Guard Matthew Slauson Questionable, and Tackle Jermon Bushrod out. Will the line be able to hold up against the Panthers’ defensive line? Luckily for the Bears, the rest of the offense looks to be finally all healed up, with only Brandon Marshall making the report as Probable, but his reported injuries haven’t slowed him down all year. Safety Ahmad Dixon, Linebacker Shea McClellin, and Defensive End Jeremiah Ratliff are also out.
The Panthers, meanwhile, are in dire need of running backs, with Jonathan Stewart Doubtful and Deangelo Williams out. They also are having Tight End issues, with Richard Brockel out and Edward Dickson Questionable. This is not good news for QB Cam Newton, who didn’t have many weapons around him to begin with.
Key Match-up
The Panthers Defensive Line vs. the Bears Offensive Line. The Panthers secondary is not going to hold up very long if Jay Cutler has the time to throw to his gigantic receiving corp of Martellus Bennett, Brandon Marshal, and Alshon Jeffrey. However, if they can get to him and force him to make a few of his typical bad throws, they may be able to slow down their passing attack, while using the depleted Bears O-line to also plug any running holes for Matt Forte.
Players to Watch
Jay Cutler and Cam Newton
As previously mentioned, both teams are coming off of embarrassing losses this week. Both QBs also have historically had their leadership questioned. Now they both come to this game with a piece of their offense removed due to injuries. We will see who can overcome the pressure, problems, and stigma to emerge victorious today.
Prediction
The Panthers defense gets to Jay Cutler early and often, causing Bad Jay to show up before the second half. Meanwhile, the Bears’ below-average defense allows Cam Newton to do some running of his own, and Kelvin Benjamin to get behind them for some big gains. The Bears’ offensive weapons will keep them in the game, but it won’t be enough.
Chicago Bears – 20
Carolina Panthers – 24