Here are five important facts to keep in mind leading up to the Week 14 matchup between the Bears and the Lions.
The Chicago Bears (4-8) and their fans had an additional week to savor their first NFC North victory of the season, which came against the Minnesota Vikings (6-6) in Week 12. Now, with Chicago back at full strength, they are preparing to settle the score with the Detroit Lions (9-3), who snatched a win from the Bears just a few weeks ago.
As the season heads towards its conclusion, these two NFC North rivals have vastly different outlooks. Detroit is only a few games away from securing an NFC playoff berth, while Chicago would need to win every remaining game and hope for a stroke of luck to secure one of the remaining postseason spots.
The race to the finish line is about to commence, so let's delve into the five key points you should be aware of ahead of the Week 14 clash between the Bears and the Lions.
1. The Bears haven't beaten the Lions in December since 2012 - Chicago has shown they can compete with Detroit, but their December record against the Lions adds extra motivation. The Bears have a historical record of 26-18 against Detroit in December. However, their last December victory against the Lions dates back to 2012 when they won 26-24 in then-coach Lovie Smith's final game. Notably, running back Matt Forte had 100 rushing yards, and quarterback Jay Cutler had over 250 passing yards and a touchdown.
2. Bears aiming for a second consecutive NFC North win - Chicago recently ended a nine-game losing streak within the NFC North with a hard-fought victory over the Vikings in Week 12. Coming off a bye week, the Bears have their sights set on another divisional rival, the Lions, in Week 14. Their last chance to face a divisional opponent will be against the Packers in the season finale. This season, the Bears have a 1-3 record within the NFC North, losing to the Packers, Vikings, and Lions.
3. Bears let a 12-point lead slip against the Lions in Week 12 - Chicago displayed dominance for most of their recent encounter with the Lions, holding a comfortable 26-14 lead with just 4:15 remaining. However, in a dramatic turn of events, the Lions scored two quick touchdowns, overtaking the Bears with a 29-26 victory. A crucial strip-sack by Detroit's standout pass rusher, Aidan Hutchinson, sealed the shocking loss for Chicago. The Bears are eager for revenge in their upcoming matchup.
4. Bears looking to finish the season strongly; Lions gearing up for playoffs - Despite their 4-8 record, the Bears are not giving up on their playoff aspirations. Tight end Cole Kmet has expressed his belief in their chances and views the final five games as must-win opportunities. On the other hand, the Lions lead the NFC North comfortably at 9-3 and are on the brink of securing a playoff spot. Their offense showcases versatility, and the defense boasts key playmakers.
5. Bears are fully healthy, while Lions have some injuries to contend with - Chicago's head coach, Matt Eberflus, delivered positive news by confirming that the team is at full health, with everyone participating in practice. Injuries were relatively minor following their win against the Vikings, and the bye week provided an ideal opportunity for players to recover. - In contrast, the Lions are grappling with injuries to key players on both sides of the ball. Defensive tackle Alim McNeill was placed on injured reserve, while starting center Frank Ragnow and starting linebacker Alex Anzalone are listed as questionable for the upcoming game.
| POLL | ||
7 DECEMBRE | 25 ANSWERS Here are five important facts to keep in mind leading up to the Week 14 matchup between the Bears and the Lions. Will the Bears win the game against the Lions? | ||
| Yes | 14 | 56 % |
| No | 11 | 44 % |
| List of polls | ||
