Chicago at Los Angeles

Chicago is a big dog but still has an elite defense. Pass rusher Khalil Mack has 70.5 sacks in 110 games, while the secondary is anchored by safety Eddie Jackson, a Pro Bowler in 2018 and 2019. This defense was #11 in yards allowed in 2020, and they were eighth in yards per carry allowed (4.1) on third down. And that was without run-stuffing nose tackle Eddie Goldman, who opted out last year due to COVID-19 concerns. The Bears have never had a losing record under coach Matt Nagy and have made the playoffs in two of his three years. Los Angeles made big news in the offseason by adding 33-year-old QB Matthew Stafford. A major concern, however, is in the trenches protecting him. The Rams didn't add any depth in free agency or the draft. Center Austin Blythe left in free agency, center Brian Allen missed all of 2020 with a knee injury, and left tackle Andrew Whitworth will be 40 in December and is coming back from a knee injury. All three of Chicago's September games last season were decided by four points as the defense allowed 20.6 points per game. Back the big dog with the powerhouse 'D' in a close one. Play Chicago.