Thursday | 8:15 ET
With the whole country tuning in on Thursday Night, the Bears will look to avoid their 15th straight loss in Landover against the Commanders. Coming off of the most impressive performance of his NFL career (335 passing yards, 4 TDS), it will be interesting to see if Justin Fields can keep the ball rolling against a stronger defense. For Washington, this game is a must-win. After starting off the season 2-0, they’ve fallen to 2-2 due to tough matchups against the Bills and Eagles. They’ll look to use Thursday Night as a reset to get back on track for the rest of the season.
Though Chicago suffered another tough defeat last week against Denver, the offense looked great for the first three quarters. Justin Fields looked free and confident, even setting the franchise record for most consecutive completions. He made several impressive improvisation plays, and was simply the best that he’s been in a Bears uniform. Now, this was against the worst defense in the NFL.
In Week 5, OC Luke Getsy and Justin Fields get to prove that they’ve figured out what works, and utilize it against the Commanders. Washington typically leans into quarters coverage, so the short to mid range pass plays that the Bears ran last week will probably get some more run. The Commanders have a scary defensive line, which is tied for 7th in the NFL in sacks (13). Chicago’s offensive line will have to step up its game if Fields is going to have any time in the pocket. The possible return of guard Teven Jenkins could aid this.
Washington has weapons on offense. WR Terry McLaurin has been a stud for years, RB Brian Robinson is consistent, and WR Jahan Dotson had a nice rookie year in 2022. The issue lies at quarterback. 2022 5th round draft pick Sam Howell has been given the job, and has had an up-and-down start. He threw four interceptions against Buffalo in Week 3, but bounced back at Philadelphia in Week 4, posting 290 passing yards, one TD, and no turnovers. He played well enough to take his team- as heavy underdogs- to overtime against last season’s NFC champions.
Washington has more than enough talent to put up big numbers against a struggling Chicago defense. The Bears’ unit has lost its defensive coordinator, as well as its two best players in the secondary (Eddie Jackson and Jaylon Johnson). The defensive line has accounted for just two sacks (worst in NFL, next lowest has four sacks), and ranks last in PFF pass rush grade. Washington’s young quarterback will be able to work comfortably under center and will have plenty of time to see the field and make decisions. I would expect him to keep the interceptions number low again in this matchup. The Commanders should be able to attack the Bears however they want. I expect the wide receivers to be involved early and Brian Robinson to grind the game out once Washington gains the lead.
Even if the Bears’ offense plays alright, the defense won’t be able to hold up for four quarters. The Bears lose again in primetime.