Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears: Week 8 Preview

It’s pretty much win or die for the Chicago Bears the rest of the year. That makes their final primetime appearance against the Minnesota Vikings critical.

By that same token the Vikings know their chance to seize total control of the NFC North is at hand. Detroit and Green Bay both lost in week 8, meaning a win over the Bears practically locks up the crown barely halfway through the season. It’s a classic desperation vs. determination matchup with the added spice of a cloudy future regarding Bears head coach John Fox.

Background:

Word is Fox might be fighting for his job as the Bears brass aren’t happy with the results they’ve seen. Minnesota is trying to find out what has been ailing their offense of later after an ugly performance in Philadelphia. The reality is the injuries are finally catching up to them. No Adrian Peterson and a banged up offensive line have left Sam Bradford with few options beyond Stefon Diggs and Kyle Rudolph. Can the Vikings defense continue to cover for them?

Injury Report:

Kyle Long (triceps) – The Bears’ Pro Bowl right guard has battled a nagging shoulder problem all season but it wasn’t until the game in Green Bay where he was dealt the toughest blow. He apparently suffered a strained triceps. He is doubtful for the game and likely out until at least after the bye. That leaves a rather large hole up front.

Sharrif Floyd (knee) – By that same token the Vikings defensive front will be down one of their better players. Defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd has a lingering knee problem that will keep him out of the game. It’s a real shame too because he’s played quite well so far with 34 tackles and 2.5 sacks on the year. Minnesota will have to hope their depth can compensate.

Key Matchup:

Stefon Diggs vs. Bryce Callahan

Part of the reason Philadelphia was able to frustrate the Vikings so much was the ability to limit top receiver Stefon Diggs. He had just two catches for 18 yards. Chicago must try to duplicate that game plan. Bryce Callahan has emerged as their best cover corner. Assuming he’s healthy, which is no guarantee, it will be up to him to do that job if the Bears want any hope.

Prediction:  Vikings win 24-13

At the end of the day the Vikings just have better depth to survive the injuries they’ve suffered. Chicago doesn’t. Even the return of Jay Cutler won’t be enough to life their offense. Not against that defense. Minnesota will take control late in an ugly game to maintain command of the division while the Bears contemplate major changes during the bye.