Ahead of the Denver Broncos’ game against the Chicago Bears this weekend, we asked Alyssa Barbieri of Bears Wire five questions about Chicago and Sunday’s matchup against Denver. Check out our questions and Alyssa’s answers below!
1
Loser gets Caleb Williams, deal?
Looks that way. The Bears are an absolute mess right now, and there’s no sign of things getting better. The offense remains ineffective. The defense can’t stop a nosebleed (even when healthy). And the coaches haven’t done their part. There’s a scenario where Chicago could own the top two picks in the 2024 NFL draft after this week (if both they and Carolina lose). And it feels like the Bears could very well be back where they started two years ago – tearing it all down and another rebuild attempt. The fact that Chicago are home underdogs against a Broncos team that lost by 50 points last week says everything you need to know about this team.
2
Seriously, though, can Justin Fields still be Chicago's QB of the future?
That’s a question that should be answered during these final 14 games. So far, the answer appears to be no. He’s regressed through these first three games. And while there’s some blame to be attributed to coaches and protection, Fields is still missing open receivers, holding on to the ball too long and looks rattled. It certainly feels like Fields is playing for his future in Chicago right now, especially considering GM Ryan Poles didn’t draft Fields and has an easy out next season. If the Bears are sitting with the No. 1 pick at the end of this season – be it their own or the Panthers’ selection – and Fields fails to show substantial progress, there’s no way you can pass up Caleb Williams.
3
Do the Bears have any notable weaknesses the Broncos might be able to exploit?
Where to start? On offense, Justin Fields is among the most-sacked quarterbacks in the league – due to poor pass protection and him holding onto the ball too long. If the Broncos rattle him early, it could be over quickly. On defense, Chicago’s defensive line has failed to generate sacks on opposing quarterbacks (they have just one through three games). Russell Wilson should have plenty of time in the pocket to pick apart a Bears secondary that could be without cornerback Jaylon Johnson and safety Eddie Jackson (on top of cornerback Kyler Gordon, who’s on injured reserve).
4
Does Chicago have any under-the-radar players Denver fans should be aware of this week?
Rookie running back Roschon Johnson has been one of the pleasant surprises this season – in limited fashion. He’s worked his way up to the RB2 role behind Khalil Herbert, and he’s made the case for additional reps with each passing game. He’s the most complete running back on their roster, where he’s provided support in pass protection and as a pass catcher, on top of his rushing ability. The Bears haven’t utilized him as much as they should this season, but that could change Sunday against a Broncos defense allowing 177.7 rushing yards per game.
5
What's your prediction for Sunday -- who wins and why?
This game is shaping up to be ugly on so many levels. While the Broncos lost by 50 points last week, they should still easily win this game. The Bears are dysfunctional from the top on down. The offense lacks identity. The defense is depleted and can’t pressure the quarterback. The coaches have yet to have their team ready to play this season. Denver is simply the better team. While I don’t anticipate a blowout, I do see Chicago’s losing streak extending to 14 games. Broncos 27, Bears 20.
