NFL makes clear choice between Bears and Patriots

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NFL makes clear choice between Bears and Patriots

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Oct 22, 2026 2:09 PM ET

The Chicago Bears and New England Patriots’ Week 7 matchup is one of the most anticipated so far this season. It will be played on “Thursday Night Football” at Soldier Field, giving the teams a chance to play on national TV. The NFL Network’s analysts and reporters made their choice clear on who they think will win the game.

Chicago is coming off a 31-23 win over the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Caleb Williams successfully returned from a three-game absence by leading his team to victory. He completed 30-of-36 passes for 305 yards, one touchdown and zero interceptions. He missed Weeks 3 to 5 after sustaining a hamstring injury in the second game of the season.

New England, on the other hand, is on a three-game winning streak. Drake Maye has been impressive this season, distributing the football well and maximizing his weapons. The team has one of the highest-scoring offenses in the league, capable of scoring quickly and in different ways.

NFL Network crew shares picks between Bears and Patriots

Ten NFL Network analysts and reporters shared their picks for Thursday’s matchup. Nine of them chose the Bears, believing that they will make it back-to-back wins. Only Bucky Brooks selected New England and predicted a 31-27 result.

The NFL’s game picks for Bears vs Patriots are IN and it’s majority Chicago.

Bears are the heavy favorites in this highly anticipated matchup on primetime. https://t.co/JzCkP38dQw

— Bearsszn (@bearszn) October 21, 2026

The Bears went 2-1 without Williams as Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum took over under center. However, Williams’ return is a big boost to the team as it aims to live up to expectations. It won the NFC North last year with an 11-6 record and reached the Divisional Round. Williams established himself as one of the best young quarterbacks in the league with a lot of composure under pressure.

Amazon Prime will broadcast Thursday’s game live at 8:15 p.m. ET. Soldier Field is expected to be filled, with Chicago fans cheering on their team loudly.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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