The Bears will travel to Philadelphia to take on the Eagles this week in only the third NFL game on Black Friday in NFL history. Both teams head into the game sitting at 8-3, atop of their respective divisions. Chicago has won 8 of its last 9, but is dealing with (valid) criticism for its ease of schedule. If they win this week on the road against the defending champions, however, the NFL community will be forced to take them seriously. Week 13 is a huge test for the Bears.
The Eagles blew a 21-point lead to the Cowboys last week, and will no-doubt be looking to right the ship. Despite the star-studded talent, Philly’s offense has been average this year. It has been its defense leading the way. In its three games against the rest of the NFC North this year, the Eagles have gone 3-0 and given up a combined 38 points. Oddly enough, the Bears will also look to complete a season sweep of the NFC East, having already defeaten the Giants, Cowboys, and Commanders this season.
This week could mark a turning point for Chicago’s defense, with both Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon expected to return from the IR. They will both be looking to make statements in front of America on Friday afternoon.
Keys to the Game
Bears
- Contain Saquon Barkley
Chicago needs to limit Eagles star running back Saquon Barkley’s production on Friday. Much to many’s surprise, Saquon hasn’t lived up to his elite pedigree this year. He sits at 14th in the NFL in rushing yards and 25th in rushing touchdowns, which is a major reason why Philly’s offense hasn’t been as good at it was last year. Even with his lowered overall numbers, we still see significant differences in his numbers in wins versus losses. If you can severely limit Barkley, you can beat the Eagles.
Barkley Average Rushing Yards in Eagles Wins: 72 yards
Barkley Average Rushing Yards in Eagles Losses: 37 yards
- Get Out of the Muck
In its three wins against the other NFC North teams, the Eagles averaged only 18 points. They’ve won by grinding the game down into a gritty, ugly, defensive afternoon. If Chicago can break through the muck, ideally with explosive plays through the air, it can hope to break the chain. Last week, the Cowboys had 3 plays of 43+ yards. I expect Ben Johnson to have some fun plays saved up for this spot in order to generate similar results.
Eagles
- Take Advantage of Chicago’s Defensive Injuries
The Eagles need to take advantage of a banged up Chicago defense. Their defense has been carrying the load, but the Bears offense has been productive this season. Philly’s offense will need to shoulder some of the load. Bears star CBs Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon should both return from long absences, but you have to expect some rust there. In addition to potentially challenging the CBs, the Eagles should primarily target the linebackers via the run game. LB T.J. Edwards may return, but Tremaine Edmunds-the captain of the defense-is still on IR. His replacement D’Marco Jackson filled in surprisingly well last week, but he is still a practice squad guy.
- Protect the Ball
The Bears have the most takeaways in the NFL (24) and rely on them to win ball games. Without these plays, Chicago struggles. Fortunately for Philadelphia, the Eagles offense has surrendered the least turnovers in the NFL (only 6). Something will have to give here, and whomever it works out for will probably win the game.