The Chicago Bears are facing their toughest test yet in the NFC divisional-round playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams, and this time, they can't even trick themselves into thinking it's not. A team that finished with a 1-5 record is being referred to as "the toughest opponent" they've faced all season, while one who had a better record than them will be traveling to Soldier Field.
In reality, the Rams are not only the best opponent the Bears have seen but might even be the best team in the league. Led by quarterback Matthew Stafford, they dominate in every aspect of the game where the Bears struggle. The Rams' offense is well-rounded and features a plethora of talents that leave opponents struggling to keep up.
Stafford himself has been playing some of the best football of his career at 37 years old, leading the league in passing yards per game (276.9) and touchdown passes (46). His quarterback rating of 109.2 was second only to Drake Maye's. The Rams' star quarterback has averaged a passer rating that's unheard of for an entire season.
Stafford has a team full of talent at his disposal, including wide receiver Davante Adams and tight end Tyler Higbee. They've also got a stout defense, with two Pro Bowl pass rushers in Jared Verse and Byron Young who have combined for 19Β½ sacks.
The Bears secondary has been shaky all season, particularly when facing top-tier quarterbacks. Stafford's offense will be putting that to the test on Sunday at Soldier Field, and it's likely they'll come out on top.
In short, this is not a game the Bears can win without their A-game. They'll have to play perfect football if they hope to keep up with the likes of the Rams' high-powered offense.
In reality, the Rams are not only the best opponent the Bears have seen but might even be the best team in the league. Led by quarterback Matthew Stafford, they dominate in every aspect of the game where the Bears struggle. The Rams' offense is well-rounded and features a plethora of talents that leave opponents struggling to keep up.
Stafford himself has been playing some of the best football of his career at 37 years old, leading the league in passing yards per game (276.9) and touchdown passes (46). His quarterback rating of 109.2 was second only to Drake Maye's. The Rams' star quarterback has averaged a passer rating that's unheard of for an entire season.
Stafford has a team full of talent at his disposal, including wide receiver Davante Adams and tight end Tyler Higbee. They've also got a stout defense, with two Pro Bowl pass rushers in Jared Verse and Byron Young who have combined for 19Β½ sacks.
The Bears secondary has been shaky all season, particularly when facing top-tier quarterbacks. Stafford's offense will be putting that to the test on Sunday at Soldier Field, and it's likely they'll come out on top.
In short, this is not a game the Bears can win without their A-game. They'll have to play perfect football if they hope to keep up with the likes of the Rams' high-powered offense.