The Chicago Bears capitalized on a depleted Los Angeles Rams team last week, as the Rams were missing key players, including star receivers Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp, along with three starting offensive linemen. The Bears took advantage of these absences, as good teams often do, and they may have a similar opportunity this weekend against the injury-riddled Carolina Panthers. The Panthers have already lost star defensive tackle Derrick Brown for the season, and now linebacker Shaq Thompson is also out with an Achilles injury. Inside linebacker Josey Jewell is sidelined with groin and hamstring issues as well.
The Panthers’ injury troubles don’t end there. Their latest injury report looks devastating, with 16 players either limited or not practicing on Thursday, including tight ends Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble, wide receiver Diontae Johnson, and guards Damien Lewis and Robert Hunt.
The #Panthers Thursday injury report is a lengthy one. Miles Sanders, Tommy Tremble, and Jalen Coker are the new notable additions.
Diontae Johnson was a limited participant (ankle). pic.twitter.com/FFWxp2HhBc
— Jared Feinberg (@JRodNFLDraft) October 3, 2024
The Bears will face a severely weakened Carolina team on Sunday. Even if many of the injured players suit up, they won’t be at full strength. This gives Chicago a prime opportunity to secure another win, especially in what is considered the easier stretch of their schedule. While Carolina has struggled with a 1-3 record this season, they’ve shown improvement recently. Switching to quarterback Andy Dalton has brought stability to their offense, and they’ve been competitive in their last two games.
The injuries don’t guarantee a win for the Bears, but they should provide matchup advantages. The key for Chicago will be containing Carolina’s running game and applying pressure on Dalton. If they can do that, this is a game they should come away with a victory.
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