WHENTHE CHIEFS HAVE THE BALL
ON THE GROUND
Jamaal Charles (59 carries, 306 yards, four TDs) is one of the finest all-around running backs in the NFL. He is fifth in the NFL in rushing and is particularly effective near the goal line. The key to stopping him is to be sound fundamentally, stay in your gap and gang-tackle. ‘‘His speed, No. 1,’’ Bears defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said when asked about Charles’ strengths. “He’s got really good running instincts. If he gets in the open field, he’s a tough guy to bring down.’’ This will be an interesting challenge for a Bears defense that has shown improvement from week to week. The Bears contained the Raiders’ Latavius Murray last week, but Charles is a step up in class.
PLAYERS TOWATCH
Charles isn’t only the Chiefs’ leading rusher, but he’s their third-leading receiver (20 catches, 151 yards, one TD) and must be accounted for out of the backfield. Bears nose tackle Jeremiah Ratliff is expected to make his first start. ‘‘Anytime you add a DL with his ability and passion for the game, you’re going to be better,’’ Fangio said.
IN THE AIR
This is a good early-season litmus test for an improving Bears defense. Alex Smith (93-for-143, 1,110 yards, four TDs, three INTs, 89.2 rating) is a quality quarterback who can make plays on the run and with the pass. But his protection has been spotty (he has been sacked 18 times) and his receiving corps is standard at best (Jeremy Maclin has scored the only TD by a Chiefs receiver since 2013). Considering the Chiefs’ protection issues, this could be an opportunity for Fangio to add a few new wrinkles in the pass rush. Jarvis Jenkins, who had two career sacks in 44 games entering this season, has three sacks already in Fangio’s defense.