The Detroit Lions look to achieve their first victory of the season against the Chicago Bears on Sunday. This is a heated NFC North matchup with both franchises attempting to bounce back after a rough first three weeks. It's time to continue our NFL predictions series with a Lions Week 4 prediction.
Chicago's offense was horrific in Week 3. Additionally, Matt Nagy won't name the starting quarterback as he's deemed it a “game-time decision.” Regardless, this is an opportunity for the Lions' front seven to gain some confidence.
Detroit's offense hasn't looked as bad as many believed so far. Even though they're currently 0-3, the Lions have kept it close in two of their three games. We could see a big performance from Jared Goff as he looks to get back under control. This could lead D'Andre Swift to have a big game also. Meanwhile, TJ Hockenson plans to dominate Chicago's suspect secondary. With that said, here are four bold Lions Week 4 predictions against the Bears.
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Lions Week 4 Predictions
4. Lions pass rush gets the best of the Bears quarterback
No matter who is under center, the Bears will potentially struggle yet again. The Lions' defense has been plagued with injuries, which makes them vulnerable. However, the front seven could be in for a field day due to the Bears' poor pass protection. Whoever is in the pocket might be in for a rough game on Sunday.
3. Jared Goff looks like a franchise quarterback
Jared Goff receives a ton of flak but he's not the worst quarterback in the league by any means. Detroit doesn't have a plethora of weapons at his disposal, but the offensive line is one of the best in the league. He can get the job done but the Lions must improve on offense if they hope to be competitive.
With the Bears being vulnerable right now, Goff could be in for a big performance. The Lions' offense runs through D'Andre Swift and TJ Hockenson. If a receiver could step up his game, then the Lions would vastly improve. Either way, Jared Goff might surprise the league with a solid game on Sunday.
2. Bears defense has no answer for D'Andre Swift
D'Andre Swift has looked fantastic and he's only going to get better. Head coach Dan Campbell has already stated, “You're going to see a lot more of Swift.” It seems the Lions' young running back has earned a featured role in the offense. He's a versatile weapon who can take it to the house on any given play.
He serves as a legitimate running back while also being a vital tool in the passing game. He's pulled comparisons to Alvin Kamara and Austin Ekeler, which bodes well for Swift's career outlook. He should be on full display against the Bears, who are likely to struggle to contain him.
1. TJ Hockenson goes off for 100+ yards and 2 touchdowns
TJ Hockenson has the tools to be one of the best tight ends in the league. He's already Jared Goff's favorite target, as there aren't many other options on the roster. Even so, the passing game runs through Hockenson first. Chicago has struggled against the pass lately, so the Lions star tight end should be in for a big game.