NFL WEEK 8 SCORE PREDICTION BEARS AT COMMANDERS

Wed, Oct 23, 2024
by SetTheNarrative.cappertek.com

1 PM Sunday: Chicago Bears (4-2) vs. Washington Commanders (5-2)

  • Vegas Line: Bears -2 | O/U 44
  • Predicted Score: CHI 23 - 18.5 WSH

The Week 8 matchup between the Chicago Bears and Washington Commanders has the potential to be one of the most intriguing games of the season, especially if both rookie quarterbacks—Caleb Williams (Bears) and Jayden Daniels (Commanders)—are on the field. However, Jayden Daniels suffered an injury in Week 7 against the Panthers, even though Washington still dominated, winning 40-7 and improving to 5-2. The Bears are coming off a bye with a 4-2 record, and Caleb Williams has been on a steady upward trajectory, improving his performance with each game.

The QB Question and Missed NFL Marketing Opportunity:
While the Commanders are staying tight-lipped about Jayden Daniels’ status, the uncertainty has caused frustration for fans and media alike. This could have been a marquee showdown between the No. 1 overall pick, Caleb Williams, and the No. 2 overall pick, Jayden Daniels. Both rookies have been playing at a record-setting pace, and a head-to-head matchup would have made for excellent television. It seems the NFL is missing a golden opportunity to hype this game if Daniels' injury status isn't clarified early, which could have drawn more attention to these two rising stars.

  • Bears Offense vs. Commanders Defense: Caleb Williams has been improving steadily and is now the better quarterback according to the data. Chicago’s offense can score 21 points against defenses of similar quality to Washington’s, but the Commanders’ defense has struggled mightily, allowing 40 points against teams with comparable offensive capabilities. The Bears will likely try to establish their running game early and often, aiming to feed their starting RB 22 carries to control the clock and take pressure off Caleb Williams. Shane Waldron, the Bears’ offensive coordinator hired in 2024, prefers a balanced attack, blending a modern run-pass option (RPO) system with deep play-action concepts to stretch defenses.

  • Commanders Offense vs. Bears Defense: Washington’s offense has been potent, scoring 31 points on average against defenses like the Bears’. Even if Jayden Daniels is unable to play, Kliff Kingsbury, the Commanders’ offensive coordinator, is known for his pass-heavy Air Raid-style system, which could lean on the backup quarterback to execute short, quick throws if Daniels sits out. The Commanders, too, will likely try to force their running game into existence, aiming to feed their starting RB 22 carries to maintain balance. Chicago’s defense allows 21 points against offenses of Washington’s caliber, but their ability to limit big plays will be crucial.

Coaching Styles and Impact:

  • Shane Waldron (Bears OC): Waldron, hired in 2024, brings a creative and balanced offensive style. He excels at leveraging the strengths of his quarterback, using RPO concepts, quick throws, and play-action to keep defenses on their heels. His approach fits well with a dynamic quarterback like Caleb Williams, giving him flexibility to make plays both through the air and on the ground.

  • Kliff Kingsbury (Commanders OC): Kingsbury, also hired in 2024, brings an Air Raid background, emphasizing high-tempo, spread formations, and heavy passing. His offense focuses on getting the ball out quickly to minimize pressure on the quarterback, which could help if Daniels is unavailable. However, his system could struggle if Washington cannot effectively run the ball, especially against Chicago’s defense.

Conclusion:
This game hinges on the status of Jayden Daniels. If Daniels can play, this could be a close and thrilling contest. However, if he sits out, the Commanders may struggle to keep pace with a Bears team that has the better quarterback in Caleb Williams. Both teams will try to control the game with the run, aiming to feed their lead backs 22 carries, but ultimately, Williams’ continued improvement and the Bears’ defensive strength should give Chicago the edge.

Final prediction: Bears 23 - 18.5 Commanders. Expect the Bears to squeak out a win, but the score could widen if Jayden Daniels remains sidelined.


JP