Zielinski: Packers won’t fall into Bears trap

By DAN ZIELINSKI

The Green Bay Packers (6-3) visit the Chicago Bears (4-5) in Week 11, seeking their 11th straight win in this historic rivalry. Green Bay enters as the more stable team, while Chicago looks to stop a three-game skid amid offensive struggles.

With a league-high 38 sacks allowed, Chicago’s offensive line faces a tough test against Green Bay’s defense, which thrives on creating turnovers.

The Bears have gone 23 consecutive possessions without a touchdown since their last touchdown against Washington in Week 8. They have only two touchdowns in 34 drives since the bye.

In response, Chicago fired their offensive coordinator. Rookie QB Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall pick, has struggled, failing to surpass 200 passing yards in two of his last three games and posting no touchdowns during that stretch. Williams has nine passing touchdowns, five interceptions, 1,785 passing yards and 236 rushing yards on the season, falling short of expectations.

The Packers’ offense also faces its own challenges. Running back Josh Jacobs has been a standout addition, rushing for at least 76 yards in three consecutive games and totaling 73 or more in four of the last five. Quarterback Jordan Love has the potential to be one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks, throwing 15 touchdowns this season. However, his decision-making has been a concern, as he’s also thrown 10 interceptions, limiting his effectiveness.

The Bears undeniably have talent, but they’ve struggled to meet expectations and appear disjointed. Meanwhile, the Packers’ consistency and ability to create turnovers give them the upper hand. While the game will likely be close and physical, Green Bay should pull away in the final stretch.

Prediction: Packers 24, Bears 17