The Detroit Lions and Chicago Bears will square off at Ford Field in Week 2 in a game between two teams that are licking their wounds following a disappointing Week 1.
The Lions were soundly outplayed by the Green Bay Packers in the season-opener and fans are already frustrated with the slow start. Meanwhile, the Bears looked to be cruising over the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night before J.J. McCarthy woke up and the Bears completely collapsed.
This will be the 191st meeting between these two franchises, with Chicago holding the all-time advantage, 105-80-5. However, the Bears have lost five of their last six against the Lions.
The winner will improve to 1-1, while the loser will go to 0-2 and into the cellar in the division. Now, a look at how experts see this game going between the NFC North rivals.
Lions vs. Bears predictions
Vinnie Iyer, Sporting News: Lions 24, Bears 21
Iyer: "Ben Johnson takes his team on a short week to the team whose offense he used to coordinate. But Detroit's dismal disappointment in Green Bay will lead to familiar run-based production with Jahmyr Gibbs, opening up Jared Goff in the passing game. Aidan Hutchinson and the Lions' defense will answer by doing enough to keep Caleb Williams in check."
Bill Bender, Sporting News: Lions 31, Bears 22
Bender: "Chicago coach Ben Johnson – the Lions' offensive coordinator from 2022-24 – makes a quick return to Ford Field. The Lions need to turn up the pressure here on Caleb Williams, and they will at home. Look for Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery to bounce back, too. The Lions were 5-5 ATS at home last season."
Jeremy Cluff, Arizona Republic: Lions 31, Bears 23
Cluff: "The Lions did not look like the Lions of last season in their Week 1 loss to the Green Bay Packers, including only rushing for 46 yards. They will look more like Detroit in Detroit."
Iain MacMillan, Sports Illustrated: Lions over Bears
MacMillan: "The Chicago Bears look extremely similar to last year's version of the team, despite Ben Johnson being in at head coach. Caleb Williams missed many throws late in the game and may not have taken the step forward people were hoping for. Meanwhile, the Lions may have gotten off to a bad start but a Week 1 matchup at Lambeau Field was a nightmare situation for them. I think they're the far better team in this matchup and will feel comfortable returning to Detroit for their home opener. They'll win this one in impressive fashion."
John Breech, CBS Sports: Lions 23, Bears 16
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