The Bears had a typical game Sunday afternoon, which meant that they lost big because they were a mess on both sides of the field. Mustering a grand total of 10 points to a Bucs defense that has given up 30 or more points five times in eight games this year says it all. In fact, if it weren’t for receiver Cameron Meredith’s lucky end-zone catch after a tipped pass, they’ll only have 3.
Jay Cutler, who seems allergic to having a great game, had another forgettable performance after a solid outing against the Vikings one week prior. The oft-criticized QB only threw for 182 yards and one touchdown, while also getting picked off in back-to-back drives.
With the inconsistency in the passing game, Alshon Jeffrey’s off-field issues, and Jordan Howard’s achilles injury, the coming weeks look darker than ever for the Bears. All were massive blows to an offense that is already ranked 31st in the league. Jeffrey is their best and most reliable receiver (70 yards per game), while Howard is the team’s most consistent offensive weapon in the past few weeks, recording four 100-plus yard games in the last six weeks.
Redeeming is also needed on the defensive side. Last week, the defense allowed young QB James Winston to pass for 312 yards (fourth highest in his career) and two TDs on a 70-percent completion rate. Against Eli Manning this coming week, who’s a dozen times more experienced that Winston, giving up that much yardage will get them blown out again.
Chicago has lost five straight games on the road (0-5 ATS).
Winners of four straight, the team with the nickname “Big Blue” are red hot right now. Monday night’s 21-20 victory over the reeling Bengals improved the Giants to a 6-3 card, keeping them in the NFC’s current playoff picture.
Although Eli Manning only completed 28 of his 44 passes, while also throwing two head-scratching interceptions, he did have three passing touchdowns, one of which was a go-ahead TD on 4th down that ultimately led to the final score.
Cincy’s secondary had a hard time against the Giants’ two key receivers. Odell Beckham caught 10 out of 11 passes for 97 yards and a TD, while Sterling Shepard hauled in five out seven for 42 yards and also one TD.
On defense, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo and his boys had their clutchest performance of the season. In the final period, safety Landon Collins had a key interception (his fourth in the last three games), while the front seven recorded back-to-back sacks on crucial downs.
With good momentum being present offensively and defensively, the Giants appear to be in a good position to have their seventh win of the season on Sunday (not that we want to jinx them).
The Giants have won three straight games at home (3-0 ATS).
