A preview of Sunday’s NFL Week 10 matchup between the Giants and Bears in Chicago:
Key Matchup
Bears DE Montez Sweat vs. Giants RT Jermaine El Emnor
Sweat has faced the Giants multiple times throughout his career. While he’s not known for being a dominant pass rusher—having 51 sacks in 100 games—he does currently lead the Bears with four sacks this season, notably achieving one against Spencer Rattler.
El Emnor missed last week due to a sore pectoral muscle. He was limited in practice this week and is listed as questionable for the game. Pro Football Focus reports that he allowed two sacks on 333 pass-blocking snaps. If he can’t go, rookie Marcus Mbouu will take his place.
Insights
Strategy: The Bears know they can have more success running outside rather than trying to power up the middle against the Giants.
“Other teams are starting to use perimeter runs, tosses, and similar plays,” said linebacker Bobby Okereke. “Figuring out how to counter those strategies is a real challenge.”
Currently, the Giants’ run defense isn’t performing well, ranking 31st in the league and allowing 150 yards per game. The Bears, on the other hand, stand second in the NFL for rushing yards per game, averaging 144.4. D’Andre Swift is questionable for the game, but Kyle Monangai had a standout performance last week, rushing for 176 yards.
“We really need to raise our individual performances,” Okereke added. “It shouldn’t just be about fitting in; it should be about making impactful plays.”
Strong Start: Jackson Dart has had a successful opening series in four of his seven starts, which suggests that offensive coordinator Mike Kafka’s game plan is effective.
“The team executed well early on, showing great tempo and communication,” Kafka noted, emphasizing the need to maintain that rhythm throughout the game.
Ball Security: The Bears excel at forcing turnovers, leading the league with 13 interceptions. Key players like safety Kevin Byard and linebacker Tremaine Edmunds each have four interceptions. The Bears have also recorded six fumble recoveries and lead the league with 19 takeaways.
“We have to be diligent about protecting the ball,” Dart commented. The Giants are somewhat average on offense this season, turning the ball over nine times, including six interceptions and three fumbles.
Future Outlook: The Giants were eyeing quarterbacks in the upcoming 2024 draft but found themselves unable to trade for the top pick to select Caleb Williams, who ended up with the Bears. The other top quarterbacks, Jaden Daniels at No. 2 and Drake Maye at No. 3, have shown consistency that Williams hasn’t, despite him showcasing some talent.
This season, Williams has thrown for 12 touchdowns and only four interceptions. He’ll face the Giants for the first time this week.
“He has impressive arm strength,” said Giants coach Brian Daboll. “He can fit the ball into tight spaces and deliver on extraordinary throws.”
Game Prediction
Can the Giants secure a win? Certainly. Will they? Given recent performances, it seems unlikely.
With wintry conditions expected, rookie Jackson Dart, who has experience playing in tough weather, might have an edge.
The Bears aim to run the ball, while the Giants struggle to stop it, which could spell trouble for New York.
Bears 24, Giants 16
