Keys to the Game
Rams
- Shut Down Chicago Run Game
- Disrupt Caleb Williams
If the Rams are going to walk out of Soldier Field with a win under their belt, they’ll need to shut down the Bears rushing attack. Sitting at 31st in rushing yards this season, Chicago has still had a chance in the final minutes in each matchup. If the are able to get any production in the running game, we’ve yet to see what the offense can accomplish. LA has given up the 3rd-most rushing yards this season, so it will be interesting to see if the Bears can finally get some rushing yards out of RB D’Andre Swift.
The Rams other key to the game is to pressure Bears QB Caleb Williams. The Bears offensive line has had a rough start to the year, which is promosing for LA. Still, Chicago will probably implement a pass-heavy gameplan (Williams threw over 50 passes last week). The last thing Rams head coach Sean McVay wants is for Williams to be comfortable in the pocket. He is getting better every time he takes the field and could find success against a poor secondary on Sunday if given a little time to scan the field.
Bears
- Take Advantage of Rams Injuries
- Heavily Utilize Wide Recievers
Just 3 weeks into the 2024 season, the Rams have been decimated by injuries. Wide receivers Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp are both out this Sunday, which leave QB Matt Stafford with extremely pass-catching weapons. The Bears need to take advantage of this and shut down the LA passing attack. I expect them to do so, as Chicago’s secondary has been lock-down this season, ranking 3rd on PFF coverage grade.
The Rams also are down 3 offensive linemen, so the Bears need to put pressure on Stafford. With the way that the defensive line has been playing, they have a good chance to make Stafford uncomfortable on Sunday afternoon. The Rams have a major coaching advantage, so it will be very important for Chicago to take advantage of their injuries.
The Bears also should heavily utilize their talented wide receivers against the Rams. LA gives up the 2nd-most yards per pass attempt, ranks 28th in PFF coverage grade, and have given up the 2nd-most passing touchdowns. With WR Keenan Allen possibly returning, the Bears have a spectacular trio of receivers in him, DJ Moore, and Rome Odunze. OC Shane Waldron finally got the passing game going last week (Williams: 362 yards, 2 TDs) and will try to keep it up this Sunday.
What’s the Move?
Bears -3 (ESPNBet)
The Bears need a win to avoid falling to 1-3, and I think they get it done. The Rams are simply too decimated by injuries. Caleb Williams will continue to improve and will be aided by the reintroduction of Keenan Allen to the lineup and poor Rams secondary.