The Chicago Bears are quietly making a case for themselves as an NFL surprise team this season. In their fourth one-score game, they edged out the Giants 24-20, extending their winning streak to four games under first-year coach Ben Johnson.
Panayotovich pointed out that the Bears' ability to win close games in bunches is reminiscent of Kevin O'Connell's Vikings team from a few years ago. While the Giants ultimately beat them in a wild-card playoff game, the Bears' recent success has earned them attention as potential contenders.
However, their schedule becomes much tougher down the stretch, with several high-profile matchups against teams that are likely to be strong on defense. The Bears face off against some of the league's toughest opponents, including the Eagles, Packers, and 49ers, which could put a dent in their chances if they struggle to move the ball.
Despite these challenges, Bears quarterback Caleb Williams has been impressive, with an average of 237.3 yards per game through eight weeks. If he can keep up this pace, he's on track to throw for over 4,000 yards - a feat that no other Bears quarterback has achieved in franchise history.
While some handicappers are optimistic about the Bears' chances, others are more cautious. Tom Barton, a lifelong Bears fan who bet on them to win eight games this season, acknowledges that their success is largely due to good fortune and a weak schedule. He also notes that injuries to key players, including cornerback Jaylon Johnson, could be a major obstacle for the team.
Meanwhile, Matt Youmans of the Vegas Stats & Information Network (VSiN) has been bullish on the Bears, betting on them in several games. However, he warns that regression is likely to hit soon, and the team may struggle against strong defenses down the stretch.
Ultimately, it's hard to say whether the Bears are a legitimate contender or just enjoying a hot streak that will inevitably cool off. But one thing is clear: with Caleb Williams leading the charge, they're definitely a team to watch this season.
Panayotovich pointed out that the Bears' ability to win close games in bunches is reminiscent of Kevin O'Connell's Vikings team from a few years ago. While the Giants ultimately beat them in a wild-card playoff game, the Bears' recent success has earned them attention as potential contenders.
However, their schedule becomes much tougher down the stretch, with several high-profile matchups against teams that are likely to be strong on defense. The Bears face off against some of the league's toughest opponents, including the Eagles, Packers, and 49ers, which could put a dent in their chances if they struggle to move the ball.
Despite these challenges, Bears quarterback Caleb Williams has been impressive, with an average of 237.3 yards per game through eight weeks. If he can keep up this pace, he's on track to throw for over 4,000 yards - a feat that no other Bears quarterback has achieved in franchise history.
While some handicappers are optimistic about the Bears' chances, others are more cautious. Tom Barton, a lifelong Bears fan who bet on them to win eight games this season, acknowledges that their success is largely due to good fortune and a weak schedule. He also notes that injuries to key players, including cornerback Jaylon Johnson, could be a major obstacle for the team.
Meanwhile, Matt Youmans of the Vegas Stats & Information Network (VSiN) has been bullish on the Bears, betting on them in several games. However, he warns that regression is likely to hit soon, and the team may struggle against strong defenses down the stretch.
Ultimately, it's hard to say whether the Bears are a legitimate contender or just enjoying a hot streak that will inevitably cool off. But one thing is clear: with Caleb Williams leading the charge, they're definitely a team to watch this season.