The Giants have some talent on the defensive front and an intriguing young quarterback in Jaxon Dart, but they allow tons of points and are struggling at 2-7.
This is a good matchup for Chicago, as it brings an explosive running game to the team that gives up the most yards per carry. The Giants have a turnover differential of -3. The Bears are plus-13. And coordinator Dennis Allen creates havoc for young quarterbacks.
(READ: Bears injury report: D’Andre Swift questionable to play against New York Giants)
This is a game the Bears should and need to win as the schedule gets tougher down the stretch. Can the Bears take care of business at home? Here’s what we think, with game selections and players important to the overall outcome:
how to look
Kick off: Midday CT
TV: FOX
Radio: ESPN Chicago (1000 AM), LATINO MIX 93.5 FM (Spanish); SportsUSA (National)
Out of Market Streaming: NFL Sunday Ticket (YouTube TV); NFL-plus
The time at the beginning
Temperature: 37 degrees (feels like 26 degrees)
Wind: NOT 22mpg
Precipitation: 1%
Cloud cover: Partly cloudy
wildcard
K Cairo Santos
The Bears kicker has been solid in recent seasons, despite what his detractors may say. He had a field goal blocked last week against Cincinnati, has dealt with an injury and hasn’t been as good as he has been in recent years.
Santos knows how to kick at Soldier Field, one of the most difficult venues to convert field goals. The wind will be strong during Sunday’s game, reaching over 20 mph during the game. The wind can swirl inside the stadium, making it increasingly difficult to predict.
In a game where every point should matter, Santos must deal with the elements and convert his field goal attempts to help rack up points. Santos can be an asset in these conditions considering his experience kicking them more than anyone else in the league.
(READ: Ryan Poles explains 2025 NFL trade deadline approach for Bears)
X Factor
Montez Sweatshirt
The veteran defensive end has been a dominant force during this Bears’ streak of five wins in six games, proving a violent presence off the edge that comes home and regularly makes big plays. He has 27 tackles, four sacks, two forced fumbles and an 11.6% pressure rate while playing 71.1% of defensive snaps.
He’s helping create turnovers with fumbles and forced interceptions, with three to his name so far. According to NFL NextGen Stats, the Giants have given up pressure on 38.2% of dropbacks overall and have struggled on the right in particular. That’s where Sweat lines up, meaning he has a chance to make a big impact here.
(MORE: Bears practice report: Montez Sweat increases pass rush production)
Bold prediction
Kyle Monangai’s encore
Rookie running back Kyle Monangai had a strong performance for the Bears last week, generating 176 rushing yards on 26 carries against Cincinnati with D’Andre Swift out with a groin injury.
Swift is questionable again due to a personal issue, meaning Monangai could once again have long carries. The offensive line has been excellent in the running game and faces a struggling Giants run defense.
Even if Swift plays, Monangai should see big plays. His physical running style should make him effective against the Giants. He will surpass 100 yards rushing for the second consecutive game, meshing well with the offensive front to strengthen the running attack. —Scott Bair
(READ: Bears mailbag: What to do with Rome Odunze’s father’s social posts)
Week 8 Picks
Scott Bair’s selection
Bears 27, Giants 17
The elements will influence this. It’s going to be cold and windy, perfect for a Bears defense that’s running strong. Allen is going to force Dart to make some mistakes that will prove to be the difference here.