Chicago (4-2) is set to take on Washington (5-2) this Sunday at 4:25 p.m. EDT, with the game broadcast on CBS. According to BetMGM, Chicago is favored by 2.5 points in this matchup. Currently, the Bears have a record of 4-1-1 against the spread this season, while the Commanders stand at 5-2. Historically, Washington leads the series, holding a slight edge at 27-26-1. Their most recent clash, which took place on October 5, 2023, saw the Bears triumph over the Commanders with a score of 40-20.

Entering this game, the Bears are coming off a bye week, with their last outing resulting in a decisive 35-16 victory against the Jaguars on October 16. On the other hand, Washington dominated the Panthers in their last match, winning 40-7. Looking at the statistics, Chicago ranks 24th overall on offense, including a 24th place for rushing, a 20th place for passing, and sits 12th in scoring. Their defense, however, is much stronger, being rated 5th overall, 11th against the run, and 7th against the pass, with a scoring defense that ranks 4th. In contrast, Washington’s offense is more potent, ranking 4th overall, 3rd in rushing, and has the joint highest scoring offense in the league. However, their defense sits at an overall rank of 16th.

For Chicago, a key player to watch is quarterback Caleb Williams. The Maryland native and 2022 Heisman Trophy recipient is showing promise as a franchise quarterback. Before the bye week, he threw for 687 yards and seven touchdowns with only one interception in wins against the Rams, Panthers, and Jaguars.

On the Commanders’ side, linebacker Bobby Wagner will be instrumental in slowing down Williams’ performance. Even though Wagner may have lost a step at age 34, his expertise and adeptness on the field should create an interesting dynamic against the young quarterback.

One of the pivotal matchups will be the Washington quarterback against the Chicago secondary. Depending on who starts for Washington—either rookie Jayden Daniels or veteran Marcus Mariota—this could dictate the flow of the game. The signal caller must tread carefully against a formidable Bears defensive backfield featuring cornerbacks Jaylon Johnson, Josh Blackwell, and Tyrique Stevenson, who collectively have made four interceptions this season.

In terms of injuries, Chicago’s safety Jaquan Brisker is still in concussion protocol after missing the last game against Jacksonville, and cornerback Kyler Gordon exited that match due to a hamstring issue. The Bears have also activated practice windows for offensive lineman Larry Borom and running back Travis Homer, who are both returning from injured reserve lists. On the Commanders’ front, Daniels is listed as week to week due to a rib injury, while rookie left tackle Brandon Coleman is dealing with a concussion sustained last week.

Originally slated for a 1 p.m. kickoff, this game was flexed to the afternoon slot for its national television coverage, highlighting the compelling duel between top rookie quarterbacks Daniels and Williams. Notably, the visiting team has won six of the last seven encounters.

As a point of statistical interest, the Bears are experiencing their best start since 2020, recording a 5-1 run after their last six games. They have accomplished three consecutive wins, a feat not witnessed since 2018. While their opponents this season have an overall record of 6-20, the Bears have managed to outscore their last few challengers, including securing five touchdowns in their last two contests—an achievement not seen since the mid-1950s. Furthermore, Chicago’s defense has impressively limited opponents to 21 or fewer points over the last 12 games, ranking the longest active streak in the NFL.

For Washington, they are enjoying success at home, holding a 3-0 record for the first time since 2005. This matchup may be vital for both teams, particularly for their respective quarterbacks, as they look to strengthen their standing in the league while attempting to gain momentum leading into the later parts of the season.

For fantasy players, keep an eye on Williams, DJ Moore, and Chicago tight end Cole Kmet, as they could thrive against Washington’s struggling secondary this season.