If Sunday’s matchup between the Lions and Bears plays out as boldly as it’s being predicted, Soldier Field could become a proving ground for Detroit’s firepower. From a 400-yard offensive effort to a defensive star taking over, the Lions have a path to a statement performance.
The Detroit Lions enter Sunday’s matchup against the Chicago Bears looking to reassert their identity after an uneven stretch, and if a trio of bold predictions comes to fruition, it could signal a strong finish to the season. From offensive production to defensive dominance, the Lions have clear paths to control the game at Soldier Field — provided they execute.
The first bold take is a familiar benchmark for Detroit: 400 total yards of offense. Under Dan Campbells play calling, the Lions have often thrived when they control tempo and balance the attack. Against a Bears defense that has struggled with consistency, Detroit has an opportunity to dictate the pace early.
Chicago has shown vulnerability against play-action and misdirection, two staples of Detroit’s scheme. Quarterback Jared Goff has historically been at his best when the run game is effective and protection is clean. Reaching 400 yards would likely require balance — roughly 250 through the air and 150 on the ground — and that balance has been the Lions’ calling card when they are at their most dangerous.
The second bold prediction centers on Aidan Hutchinson recording at least two sacks for the third straight game. Hutchinson has been playing his best football down the stretch, showing improved hand usage and closing speed that has overwhelmed opposing tackles. His recent surge has coincided with Detroit dialing up more creative pressure packages, allowing Hutchinson to attack from multiple angles.
Chicago’s offensive line has had issues with edge protection, particularly against speed rushers. If the Lions jump out to an early lead, Hutchinson’s impact could be amplified as the Bears are forced into obvious passing situations. Another multi-sack performance would further cement Hutchinson’s status as one of the league’s premier young pass rushers and could swing momentum decisively in Detroit’s favor.
The third bold take may be the most intriguing: Jahmyr Gibbs breaking out of his recent rushing slump with 125 or more rushing yards. While Gibbs has remained effective as a pass catcher, his explosive runs on the ground have been harder to come by in recent weeks. That could change against a Bears defense that has struggled with gap integrity and tackling at the second level.
Gibbs’ speed is a matchup problem, particularly on outside zone runs and counters where he can get to the edge. Detroit’s offensive line has consistently created lanes, and a renewed commitment to the run could open the door for Gibbs to showcase his burst. A 125-yard performance would not only ease pressure on Goff but also force Chicago to commit extra defenders to the box, opening opportunities in the passing game.
Collectively, these bold predictions paint a picture of a Lions team playing complementary football. A productive offense shortens the game, a dominant pass rush disrupts rhythm, and a breakout rushing performance establishes control. While each prediction on its own would be notable, all three occurring together would signal a complete performance from a team intent on finishing strong.
If Detroit can hit these marks, it won’t just be another win over a division rival, it would mean sweeping the Bears and Ben Johnson, and snapping a three game losing streak.