Justin Fields was a man on an island last week against Buffalo. The entire Chicago Bears offensive roster was devastated by injuries. Three starting offensive linemen were out as were his top three wide receivers. It isn’t a surprise the young quarterback didn’t accomplish much through the air, especially in those frigid conditions. Head coach Matt Eberflus and others hoped their health fortunes might be better going into their final road game of 2022 against the Detroit Lions. It appears those prayers have been answered.
The final injury report arrived on Friday. Right guard Teven Jenkins and left guard Cody Whitehair didn’t have any designation. That means both are expected to play on Sunday. It should be an immediate boost for the Bears’ running game. The good news didn’t stop there, though. Wide receiver Chase Claypool also practiced for the second consecutive day and was declared questionable. He’s missed the past two weeks with a knee injury. Last but not least, Equanimeous St. Brown has recovered from his concussion and will play.
While it doesn’t guarantee victory, getting four starters back should give the Bears a better chance to pull off an upset of their division rivals.
The Chicago Bears have no reason to fear Detroit.
They know they should’ve beaten the Lions a few weeks ago at Soldier Field, having held a 24-10 lead at one point. This is a big opportunity to get some revenge. Even so, they’re going to face a raucous crowd at Ford Field and a team that is fighting desperately to achieve their playoff dreams. The Lions are 7-8. They can’t afford to lose this game or their postseason hopes will be crushed. It would be a great morale boost for the Bears locker room if they found a way to steal that from them.
Subscribe to the BFR podcast and ride shotgun with Dave and Ficky as they break down Bears football like nobody else.
With Khalil Herbert back, their running game is at full strength. Detroit surrendered 320 yards on the ground last week against Carolina. So the Chicago Bears should be able to run the ball. When that happens, Fields is at his best. He’s also been good indoors, throwing four touchdowns and only one interception with a passer rating well over 100. He will need to bring his best because the Bears defense has its own health problems. They might not be able to stop the Lions’ prolific offense, especially after the return of rookie Jameson Williams.
when you play on the worst field in the NFL you get injuries. The Bears ownership is pathetic.