Bold Predictions: Bears’ Week 8 Matchup Against Seahawks Could Turn on Three Plays

Seattle enters as favorite

The Seahawks host the Bears on Monday night. Chicago has a chance to make its case as one of the NFL’s top teams. Seattle is a three-point favorite, according to DraftKings Sportsbook, and about two-thirds of experts expect the home team to win. The Seahawks beat Kansas City 20-3 last week, their most complete performance of the season, and are 4-3; their losses have come by a combined eight points.

Simmons could spark turnovers

Chicago has a minus-1 turnover differential through seven games, a marked change from last season, when it ranked first at this point with a plus-13 mark after a run of takeaways from Weeks 4-7. The prediction is that Jeffery Simmons will make an immediate impact on Chicago’s defensive front and strip-sack Sam Darnold. The article says Simmons is expected to line up against Quenton Nelson, whom Seattle traded for from Indianapolis earlier this week. Darnold has not fumbled this season, but his eight interceptions tie him for the league lead despite missing one game and most of another.

Gordon could seize an opening

Pressure from Simmons could give opposing quarterbacks less time and create chances for Chicago’s cornerbacks to jump routes. The forecast calls for Kyler Gordon to record his first interception of the season by selling a blitz before dropping into coverage.

Darnold’s tendency to take risks could offer Gordon an opportunity, according to the prediction. The proposed setting is Monday night’s game.

Williams faces tough defense

Seattle’s defense has not allowed a passing touchdown in its past two games, including against Patrick Mahomes, and gave up only three passing touchdowns in October. The forecast expects the Bears to find answers despite that recent form.

Ben Johnson and Caleb Williams have 11 days to prepare and rest before the matchup. The prediction is that Williams will throw three touchdowns and continue rising among the league’s quarterbacks; favorable starting field position could also help.