Commanders Hope to Bounce Back Against Bears

The Washington Commanders hope to halt their losing streak with a matchup Thursday against the Chicago Bears. While Chicago has yet to win a game this season, both teams have ways to maximize their chances at winning.

Commanders Game Plan – Bounce Back

The Commanders have the edge on Thursday’s game. They started the season 2-0 and went toe-to-toe with the Eagles Sunday. While they lost, they proved the team can be competitive. In the upcoming contest, the Commanders should look toward three players: Sam Howell, Brian Robinson Jr. and Terry McLaurin.

Howell should aim for more than 200 passing yards. In their games against the Eagles, Broncos and Cardinals, Howell put up 290, 299 and 202 yards, respectively. In the only game they lost, Howell had 170 yards. So, if he can have a 200+ passing yards game, the Commanders will be on the track for success.

Robinson Jr. should have more than 15 carries. In the Commanders’ games against Denver and Arizona, Robinson Jr. had 18 and 19 carries, respectively. He also recorded 87 rushing yards in the game against the Broncos. If Robinson Jr. can have a strong game, the Commanders will be one step closer to victory.

McLaurin should aim for more than 10 yards per reception. While it seems like a big task, he has proved that he is able to rise to the occasion. In the team’s wins against Denver and Arizona, he had 10.8 and 15.5 yards per reception, respectively.

Bears Game Plan – Stay Competitive

The Bears have yet to win a game, so getting their first win will definitely be a confidence booster.

Justin Fields needs to have a 200+ yard game. In the games where the Bears were competitive, Fields had more than 200 yards. He also could limit the number of interceptions. He has thrown an interception every game so far. If the team wants to keep the game within reach, he needs to help his team stay competitive.

DJ Moore should aim for more than 100 receiving yards. In the Bears’ games against the Broncos and the Bucs, Moore had more than 100 yards. Equally as important, Moore averaged at least 12 yards per reception in every game. While the Bears have a challenge ahead of them, Moore can help lead the team to their first victory.

Khalil Herbert needs to repeat his game against the Broncos. He had 103 rushing yards in the game and he averaged 5.7 yards per rush attempt. While he might not be able to have a 100+ yard game, he should aim for more than 50 yards.

Injuries

Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson, safety Eddie Jackson and wide receiver Chase Claypool are ruled out for the game. Johnson is currently dealing with a hamstring injury while Jackson is recovering from a left foot injury. Claypool has a fallout with the team and he is hoping to be traded.