Bears Could Start Hot in 2025

Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores is notorious for bringing a heavy pass rush, but the Bears’ newly upgraded offensive line should be up for the challenge. Additionally, defensive additions Grady Jarrett and Dayo Odeyingbo will add pressure up front to pair with their formidable secondary. Look for Chicago to spoil McCarthy’s long-awaited debut.

PROJECTION: CHI 28 – MIN 17

Week 2: at Detroit Lions

The first rematch against Ben Johnson’s former team will be a highly anticipated game. Despite losing both coordinators to head coaching jobs, Detroit remains a Super Bowl contender. Pro Bowl pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson leads a star-studded defense and Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery are a two-headed monster in the backfield.

Chicago’s offense has the firepower to keep up with Amon-Ra St. Brown and company, but they’ll likely be overmatched on the defensive side of the ball. The Bears didn’t fare well against the run last season, and Detroit might be too much to handle.

PROJECTION: CHI 20 – DET 31

Week 3: vs Dallas Cowboys

Week 3 marks Matt Eberflus’ return to Soldier Field. He’ll bring with him a Dallas defense that ranked bottom five in points allowed, yards allowed, and run defense last year. Despite some offseason additions, it’s uncertain whether Dallas has done enough to improve on defense.

Caleb Williams’ deep arsenal of weapons matches up well with the Cowboys’ top-heavy secondary. With Trevon Diggs typically covering DJ Moore and Daron Bland on Burden III in the slot, look for Loveland and Rome Odunze to take advantage of frequent matchups with the Cowboys’ lesser defenders.

Now that Chicago finally has a complete offense, expect fireworks and a Bears victory in week 3.

PROJECTION: CHI 34 – DAL 16

Week 4: at Las Vegas

The Raiders ruined many Bears fans’ draft night dreams when they selected Boise State phenom Ashton Jeanty. Adding Jeanty with Brock Bowers created a dynamic young offensive duo. However, the Raiders lack the depth to have a true powerhouse offense.

The Bears struggled to stop the run last season, but they made multiple offseason moves to help address the problem. The return of Andrew Billings as a stalwart up the middle will pair nicely with newcomer Jarrett and rookie Shemar Turner. If Gervon Dexter Sr. can make a leap, the group could be very effective.

On the defensive side, Las Vegas has even less to work with. After losing six starters in the offseason, it’ll be a challenge to even match their middling 2024 defensive numbers.

PROJECTION: CHI 27 – LV 13

WEEK 5 AND BEYOND

A 3-1 record entering week 5 featuring strong offensive performances would have fans ready to hand Ben Johnson a lifetime contract. However, the path to the playoffs only gets tougher for Chicago as they navigate the brutal NFC North with the league’s second-hardest schedule.

Pairing Caleb Williams with Johnson feels like a match made in heaven. If they can get the offense rolling, the Bears have a real shot at their first playoff appearance since 2020.