Game Analysis:

The Chicago Bears (4-11) are set to host the Seattle Seahawks (8-7) on Thursday, December 26, 2024, at Soldier Field. The Bears are currently on a nine-game losing streak, with their most recent defeat being a 34-17 loss to the Detroit Lions. In that game, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams showed promise, completing 26 of 40 passes for 334 yards and two touchdowns, while wide receiver Keenan Allen contributed significantly with nine receptions for 141 yards and a touchdown. Despite these individual performances, the Bears’ offense has struggled overall, averaging 18.9 points per game, ranking 26th in the league. Their defense, allowing 22.8 points per game, stands at 14th in the NFL. The team will need a cohesive effort to break their losing streak against a Seahawks team fighting for playoff contention.

The Seahawks, aiming to rebound from a 27-24 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, are in the thick of the playoff race. Quarterback Geno Smith has been effective, throwing for 314 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions in the recent loss. Rookie wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba has been a standout, recording 93 receptions for 1,089 yards this season, and has been particularly consistent over the past two months, achieving at least 70 receiving yards in seven of his last eight games. With the Bears’ secondary allowing an average of 277.3 passing yards per game over their last six games, Smith-Njigba could be poised for another productive outing. The Seahawks are favored by 3.5 points in this matchup and will look to capitalize on the Bears’ defensive vulnerabilities to strengthen their playoff prospects.