Perfect choThe Chicago Bears and Detroit Lions are gearing up for a Sunday clash that has fans buzzing—and if our WCG roundtable is any indication, this one could come down to the wire. Both teams are looking for an early-season spark, and the predictions from our contributors show just how fine the margins might be.
Gooch’s Big Call: Caleb Goes Off
Gooch is all in on Caleb Williams making a statement game. He’s predicting 340 passing yards, two touchdown strikes (including one to Rome Odunze), and even a rushing touchdown. Add in a Montez Sweat sack-and-a-half and a Jared Goff turnover-fest, and Gooch has the Bears winning it 28-21.
Lester’s Caution: Bears Fall Just Short
Lester’s not quite as bullish. While he believes Caleb will show more consistency from start to finish, he sees Detroit edging it out with a 24-22 win. He highlights the Bears leaning on the run game with D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai chipping in, plus Colston Loveland finding the end zone.
Bryan’s Nail-Biter: Lions Sneak Through
Bryan predicts a back-and-forth thriller, with the Lions squeaking out a 27-24 victory. He’s calling for two Goff touchdown passes—one to Amon-Ra St. Brown and another to Jahmyr Gibbs—plus a Monty rushing TD. Caleb will throw for two himself, but Bryan sees special teams being the difference: Jake Bates nails two FGs for Detroit, while Cairo Santos’ struggles continue.
ECD and Ryan: A Split Verdict
ECD is riding with the Bears, 27-23, pointing to Ben Johnson tweaking the ground game and a healthier defense keeping Detroit’s offense in check.
Meanwhile, Ryan thinks the Lions will bounce back, winning 31-24 as Goff returns to form and Detroit finds its offensive mojo. Caleb might throw for nearly 300 yards, but Ryan sees Detroit pulling away late.
Final Thoughts
From blowout calls to razor-thin margins, one thing is clear: all eyes will be on Caleb Williams. Can the Bears’ rookie QB rise above the Lions’ pressure and deliver a signature performance, or will Goff and the Lions reclaim their NFC North swagger?
Either way, buckle up—because this Week 2 showdown feels like it’s going down to the final drive.