The Chicago Bears (3-3) are heading into Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers (2-5) determined to correct the concerns that have plagued them in their two-game losing streak.
Luckily for the Bears, they’re facing a Chargers team that might be worse than them. But that’s part of what makes Los Angeles dangerous heading into this Week 8 contest.
Here are three causes for concern as the Bears prepare to face the Chargers in Week 8:
1. Nothing’s working on offense
There’s no area of the Bears’ offense that’s effective, unless you count receiver Allen Robinson, who continues to thrive despite his unit’s mediocrity. Which is certainly problematic when you’re looking at how to fix things.
It’d be easier if it was one thing. Instead, it’s the quarterback, the offensive line, the receivers, the running back, the tight ends and the play calling. Matt Nagy knows the problems, but he doesn’t seem to have the solutions. Well, aside from one that could fix a ton of it: Run, run, run the ball.
If there was ever a time for this offense to fix things — or least start showing some or any sort of progress — it’s against this Chargers defense that has been plagued by injuries.
2. Chargers are desperate for a win
There’s nothing more dangerous than a desperate football team with nothing to lose. And given the expectations surrounding the Chargers heading into this season, they’re looking to clinch a victory however they can.
Last week’s loss to the Titans was demoralizing for the Chargers, as they scored what appeared to be the game-winning touchdown in the game’s final minute. Both of those calls were overturned by the referees, which led to running back Melvin Gordon’s fumble on the 1-yard line and sealed the Chargers’ fate.
So the Bears will face a Chargers team reeling with frustration, not unlike themselves. While the Bears could certainly take advantage of a team that’s perhaps worse off than them, Chicago needs to beware of what could be a trap game.
3. Chargers have some game-changers
Don’t let the Chargers’ 2-5 record fool you. There are some playmakers on that team, including quarterback Philip Rivers and defensive end Joey Bosa, that could give the Bears some trouble.
Rivers has spent most of his career carrying the Chargers on his back, and despite his 6 interceptions this season, he’s someone that can keep his team in it until the end. While running back Melvin Gordon has struggled since his return from a holdout, that doesn’t mean he’s not capable of breaking off some big runs. Then there’s Bosa, who has 5 sacks this season and is a dominant force in pass rush and run defense.
The Bears need to be aware of these Chargers playmakers in what’s become a must-win Sunday at Soldier Field.
