The Chicago Bears will host the Minnesota Vikings tonight in the final game of the weekend on Monday Night Football. Rookie quarterback Mitchell Trubisky, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 draft, will be making his first career start for Chicago as the Bears try to jumpstart their offense following a 1-3 start. As for Minnesota, they are 2-2 despite dealing with a multitude of injuries, though starting quarterback Sam Bradford is expected to make his return tonight.
Which team will emerge victorious? Here's our preview and prediction.
Game Info:
When: 8:30 p.m. EST
Where: Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
TV: ESPN
Spread: Vikings (-3.5)
O/U: 41
What They're Saying About The Minnesota Vikings:
Minnesota Vikings Activate Michael Floyd, Release Stevan Ridley (Daily Norseman)
Zimmer Anticipates Bradford Will Play Against Bears (CBS Minnesota)
NFL.com 'Bold Predictions' Include Vikings Takeaway (Vikings.com)
What They're Saying About The Chicago Bears:
The Bears should take a few pages out of the Rams’ rebuilding process (Windy City Gridiron)
Bears Promoting OLB Isaiah Irving To Active Roster (NFL Trade Rumors)
Those who know Mitchell Trubisky believe he's ready for debut (ESPN)
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Key To The Game: Will Chicago's offense be better under Mitchell Trubisky?
Trubisky getting his first start is the major storyline of this game. With Mike Glennon struggling through the first four games (883 yards, four touchdowns, six turnovers), Chicago figured that now was the time to see what the rookie can do. The UNC product played well in the preseason, passing for 364 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions.
Will he be able to parlay that success into the regular season? The Vikings provide an extremely difficult test. Not only are they one of the best defenses in the league (with a great pass rush), but they are going to try to confuse him with a variety of complex coverages and blitzes. Remember, teams almost always play very basic defenses in the preseason, so Trubisky likely hasn't seen the schemes he'll face tonight.
The Bears need Trubisky to play well to win this game. How quickly will he be able to adjust to the pro game?
Prediction: Vikings win 17-13
I can see this being an ugly, low-scoring game. For as much as Trubisky will struggle against Minnesota's defense, I think Bradford will have a tough time getting into a rhythm after missing three games with his knee injury - especially without a quality running back to rely on. That said, the Vikings have more weapons at wideout. Look for someone (Stefon Diggs?) to make a big play in the fourth quarter to win the game for Minnesota.