The 2024 NFL season is heating up as we head into Week 4, and fans are eagerly awaiting the Battle of Defensive Giants when the Chicago Bears host the Los Angeles Rams at Soldier Field on Sunday, September 29. Both teams come into the matchup with strong defensive units, and this game could come down to which side’s defense can make the biggest impact.
The Matchup
Date: Sunday, September 29
Kick-off: 1 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. UK
Venue: Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois
Bears’ Odds: 1.5-point favorite (via BetMGM Sportsbook)
Broadcast: Available globally through DAZN’s NFL Game Pass International
Team Overview: Chicago Bears
The Bears enter Week 4 as slight favorites, and for good reason. They boast a 6-game home winning streak, and Soldier Field has been a fortress for them in recent months.
Despite a narrow loss to the Indianapolis Colts in Week 3, 21-16, there’s optimism surrounding the team, especially after drafting star quarterback Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft.
Williams has shown flashes of brilliance, but he remains in the developmental stages of his NFL career. His first touchdown pass in Week 3 demonstrated his potential, but he’s still adjusting to the faster pace of the NFL game.
The Bears’ offensive line has struggled, and Williams has taken his fair share of hits through the first three weeks. Despite this, the Bears’ offense is expected to improve as Williams gains more experience and the offensive line shores up its weaknesses.
Bill Speros of USA Today commented, “The Bears’ defense is helping the offense ease Caleb Williams into the NFL.” Indeed, the defense has been the team’s backbone, and it will likely play a critical role in their chances of success against the Rams.
Team Overview: Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams, on the other hand, enter the game with newfound confidence. After a thrilling 27-24 victory over division rival San Francisco 49ers in Week 3, the Rams are riding high. Jeremy Cluff observed that the Rams may have “turned around their season” with the win, sparking hope for a team that has been plagued by injuries.
Unfortunately for the Rams, they have lost two key players in wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, both of whom have been instrumental in their offense.
The absence of these two weapons will undoubtedly affect the Rams’ offensive output, but their recent victory proves they are capable of adapting and overcoming adversity.
Kupp’s injury is particularly devastating, as he has been one of the NFL’s most reliable receivers for the past few seasons. Without him, quarterback Matthew Stafford will need to rely on younger receivers and a creative offensive scheme to compensate.
Despite the injuries, ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI) gives the Rams a 50.7% chance to win, indicating that this game could go either way. It is a testament to how evenly matched these teams are and how unpredictable the outcome of this game could be.
Key Storylines
Caleb Williams vs. Rams’ Defense: Caleb Williams will face a Rams defense that, while dealing with its own share of injuries, showed its resilience by holding off the 49ers’ potent offense last week.
The Bears will need Williams to play a more polished game in order to take advantage of the Rams’ depleted secondary. His ability to handle pressure, given the Bears’ weak offensive line, will be a critical factor in determining the Bears’ success.
Bears’ Defensive Edge: Chicago’s defense has been the strength of the team, and it will be counted on to limit the Rams’ offensive production. Bill Speros notes that the Bears’ defense has helped ease Caleb Williams’ transition into the league, and it could be the difference-maker once again.
The Rams’ offense has been inconsistent, and their wide receiver injuries will make them vulnerable to the Bears’ pass rush and secondary. Chicago’s defense, led by Pro Bowl-caliber linebacker Roquan Smith and a strong secondary, has the capability to stifle Stafford and keep the game within reach for their offense.
Matthew Stafford’s Playmaking Ability: Matthew Stafford, the veteran quarterback for the Rams, is a key figure in this game. With Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua sidelined, Stafford will need to rely on other playmakers to lead the Rams’ offense.
His leadership and experience will be vital for the Rams as they try to adjust to life without their star receivers. Stafford has proven time and again that he can win games, even with a limited supporting cast. Expect to see him utilize running backs in the passing game and spread the ball to lesser-known receivers.
Injury Impact: Injuries will play a significant role in this matchup. The Bears have been relatively healthy, aside from a few minor injuries on the offensive line, while the Rams have been decimated.
Losing both Kupp and Nacua in the same week leaves a gaping hole in the Rams’ passing attack. Chicago will look to exploit this, focusing on shutting down the run and daring the Rams’ backup receivers to beat them.
The Importance of Momentum: Momentum is often an underrated factor in the NFL. The Rams are coming off a huge divisional win, and their confidence will be high heading into Soldier Field.The Bears are strong at home, winning 6 straight at Soldier Field. Continuing that streak could spell trouble for the Rams, still finding their identity in 2024.
Prediction: Who Will Win?
As the odds suggest, this game will be a close contest. The Bears hold a slim 1.5-point advantage, highlighting how evenly matched the teams are. Despite the Rams dealing with injuries, the game remains highly competitive. Both teams have their strengths: Chicago’s defense is formidable, and the Rams have shown resilience despite their challenges.
Jeremy Cluff rightly points out that the Rams’ comeback win over the 49ers could mark a turning point in their season. That kind of victory often serves as a catalyst for a team to go on a winning streak. However, the Bears have been dominant at home and have a defense capable of stifling even the most creative offenses. Caleb Williams will have another week of NFL experience under his belt, and with the Rams’ defense dealing with injury issues, Williams might be able to exploit some gaps.
Ultimately, the game will likely come down to the performance of the two quarterbacks. Stafford’s experience gives the Rams a major advantage, but Williams’ potential and the Bears’ home-field edge make them tough to overlook.
Final Prediction: Bears 23, Rams 20
The Bears’ defense will make life difficult for Stafford, while Williams will do just enough to lead the offense to a win. Expect a closely fought game, with both teams having opportunities to come out on top. However, the Bears’ defense and Soldier Field’s home advantage should carry Chicago to victory in a low-scoring affair.
How to Watch
NFL fans around the globe can catch all the action live on DAZN’s NFL Game Pass International, which provides access to every regular-season and playoff game. For those in the United States, the game will be available on local broadcasting networks and streaming services. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET, and it promises to be a thrilling Week 4 matchup between two historic franchises looking to make their mark on the 2024 season.