Broncos (0-3) at Bears (0-3)
Sunday, 1 p.m. EDT, Soldier Field, Chicago
TV:
Spread (BetMGM):
Broncos by 3.5
Broncos’ keys to victory: Denver doesn’t need to do anything special against a bad Chicago defense. Playing smart, mistake-free football should get the job done. QB Russell Wilson should attack downfield with WRs Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy against a Bears secondary missing key starters. A balanced attack with RB Javonte Williams should help alleviate pressure on Wilson. On defense, the Broncos need to bring pressure on Justin Fields, who’s among the most sacked quarterbacks in the NFL, and keep him in the pocket.
Bears’ keys to victory: Chicago needs to get Fields into a rhythm early, including getting him easy completions and using his athleticism with designed QB runs and rollouts. The Bears have a capable running back duo in Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson to help alleviate some of the stress. But it comes down to the play of the offensive line, which is down several starters and has struggled in pass protection. On defense, Chicago needs to do what it’s been unable to do: Get off the field on third down and generate pressure on the quarterback. Otherwise, Wilson should have his way with a depleted Bears secondary.
Matchup to watch: Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph vs. Bears offensive coordinator Luke Getsy. Denver gave up 70 points to the Dolphins. Meanwhile, Chicago hasn’t been able to get anything going offensively. Whoever wins this battle should win the game.
Who wins? Chicago has played worse among these 0-3 teams.
Broncos 23-20