The Chicago Bears are riding high fresh off a resounding 40-20 victory over the Washington Commanders in prime time that ended a torturous 14-game losing streak.
Now, they’re returning home where they’ll be met with a deceptively tricky 1-4 Minnesota Vikings squad. Don’t let the record fool you, Minnesota has a strong team (even without star receiver Justin Jefferson in the lineup).
Here are our three causes for concern for the Bears heading into Week 6:
1. Minnesota’s Blitz-Happy Defense
Justin Fields must watch his back on Sunday because Brian Flores and his Vikings defense get after the quarterback. Minnesota blitzes on over half of their plays. It’s audacious and working – the team ranks 15th in pressure.
Fields has already been sacked a staggering 20 times in five games, and the absence of Lucas Patrick (concussion) and Braxton Jones (IR) isn’t helping. It could be another long day for the Bears’ offensive line.
2. The Purple Wall: Vikings’ Run Defense
Minnesota’s defense has shut down running backs this year, and they’ve been one of the better run defenses in the NFL, allowing 102.4 yards per game (13th). Without Khalil Herbert (ankle) and Roschon Johnson (concussion), Chicago needs D’Onta Foreman and Darrynton Evans to step up. The Bears offense is headed into an already challenging situation with a depleted rushing attack.
3. Kirk Cousins is Slinging It
The Bears’ secondary should brace themselves — Kirk Cousins is on fire. He’s second in the league with passing yards (1,498) and leading the NFL in passing touchdowns (13). Some of it is the game script, but he’s delivered primetime performances.
Chicago has the league’s worst passing defense, and Cousins is averaging 300 yards and three touchdowns per game. Even with the return of Kyler Gordon and Jaylon Johnson, the Bears secondary is in for a test.
Summary
The Bears are heading into a storm against the Vikings in Week 6. Expect a heavy dose of blitzes, tough sledding in the run game, and Chicago defenders chasing Minnesota receivers around the field. It will take a Herculean effort from the Bears to pull off the home win.
