Packers (4-1) at Bears (3-2)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, Soldier Field, Chicago
TV: Fox
Tipico Sportsbook line: Packers by 4 ⁄2
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Packers’ keys to victory: QB Aaron Rodgers has had his way with the Bears for more than a decade. Green Bay has injuries on the offensive line, however, and that line is going to need to protect Rodgers against a Bears pass rush that’s been the best in the NFL. The Packers need to target what’s been an overall weak secondary, where WR Davante Adams has a chance to dominate. On defense, Green Bay needs to stop the run. Even without RB David Montgomery, the Bears have found life on the ground with RBs Damien Williams and Khalil Herbert. Green Bay will also need to pressure rookie QB Justin Fields, who has taken some shots in his first three NFL starts.
Bears’ keys to victory: The defense starts with OLBs Khalil Mack and Robert Quinn, who anchor one of the league’s best pass rushes. Getting pressure on Rodgers is the easiest way to keep him from destroying the Bears with big plays downfield. On offense, establishing the run remains the most important thing. Williams and Herbert combined for 139 yards rushing against the Raiders in Week 5, and they’re going to need another big game to sustain drives and keep Rodgers off the field.
Matchup to watch: Packers’ Adams vs. Bears CB Jaylon Johnson. Adams is one of the league’s most electrifying playmakers but Johnson is quietly having an impressive second season.
Who wins? Chicago hasn’t had an answer for Green Bay in the last two years. Even with injuries to some key Packers, it’s difficult to pick an upset.
Packers, 31-20