Bears (0-4) at Commanders (2-2)
Thursday, 8:15 p.m. EDT, FedExField, Landover, Maryland
TV: Prime Video
Spread (BetMGM): Commanders by 6.5
Bears’ keys to victory: Chicago finally got the running game going in its Week 4 loss to the Broncos, where the team totaled 171 rushing yards. The Bears need to keep feeding RBs Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson to establish a balance and help open up the downfield passing game with QB Justin Fields, who had a career game with 335 passing yards and four passing touchdowns. On defense, Chicago needs to get after second-year QB Sam Howell and pressure him into mistakes. Otherwise, Howell can take advantage of a depleted Bears secondary down several starters.
Commanders’ keys to victory: Washington’s offense impressed in its Week 4 loss to the Eagles, and it has a chance to beat up on a bad Chicago defense. Howell is coming off his best game of the season, and he should find success against a battered Bears secondary. He’ll lean on his talented cast of receivers in Terry McLaurin, Dyami Brown and Jahan Dotson. On defense, the Commanders need to pressure Fields and make sure he doesn’t get into an early rhythm. Otherwise, WR DJ Moore could be in for another big day.
Matchup to watch: Commanders defensive line vs. Bears offensive line. This game will be won in the trenches, where Washington should have an edge. Chicago’s offensive line is missing two starters, and Fields has been sacked at least three times in each of the first four games. If the Commanders pressure Fields early, they’ll take control.
Who wins? Washington is better and should do enough to win.
Commanders 28-24