2025 Week 9 Showdown: Bears vs Bengals Game Preview

The upcoming Week 9 matchup features a significant clash between the Chicago Bears and the Cincinnati Bengals. The game is particularly noteworthy for the challenges faced by both teams, including injuries and offensive performance. Here’s a detailed preview of the key aspects to watch.

Bears’ Offense: Adapting Without Swift

The Bears will need to adjust their game plan as running back D’Andre Swift will not participate due to a groin injury. This marks the first absence for Swift since he joined the team last year. His impressive average of 66.3 yards per game underscores his importance, particularly with four touchdowns in their last six games.

• D’Andre Swift: Rushed for career-high averages, 66.3 yards per game.
• Kyle Monangai: Stepping up as the next running back, with 186 yards and one touchdown this season.
• Roschon Johnson: Also sidelined with a back injury, further depleting the backfield.

Veteran Travis Homer remains on the roster but has predominantly contributed to special teams. Newly elevated Brittain Brown adds depth. Meanwhile, several receivers, including Rome Odunze, DJ Moore, and Olamide Zaccheaus, practiced fully and are expected to be active.

Quarterback Performance: Caleb Williams

Quarterback Caleb Williams has been effective, recording 1,636 passing yards, nine touchdowns, and a passer rating of 90.2. He ranks highly for his performance on third downs and aims to reduce his sack count, which has dropped significantly this season.

Bears’ Red-Zone Efficiency

Improving red-zone performance will be crucial for the Bears. Early in the season, they scored touchdowns on 6 of 7 red-zone trips. However, they have struggled recently, converting only 5 of 16 attempts in the past four games.

Bengals’ Defense: A Weak Spot

The Bears will face a Bengals defense that has struggled mightily this season. They currently rank last in the league, allowing an average of 31.6 points and 407.9 total yards per game.

• Red-Zone Struggles: Bengals have allowed the most red-zone touchdowns (26) this season.
• Key Matchup: Bears receiver Rome Odunze vs. Bengals cornerback D.J. Turner.

Bengals’ Offense: Joe Flacco’s Impact

For the Bengals, the quarterback situation looms large. Joe Flacco is questionable due to a shoulder injury, having performed impressively with 784 yards and seven touchdowns since joining the team. If Flacco cannot play, Jake Browning will step in, having previously demonstrated solid performance as a starter.

Running Game Transformation

Since Flacco’s arrival, the Bengals’ rushing attack has significantly improved, averaging 126.0 yards per game over the last three contests.

Fun Facts and Historical Context

Historically, the Bears have fared well against the Bengals, winning the last three matchups. With a current lead in takeaways, they have recorded 16 turnovers this season, contributing to a plus-10 turnover differential.

As this Week 9 showdown approaches, both teams are eager to turn their season paths around. The matchup between the Bears and Bengals promises to be an exciting event, showcasing resilience and strategic adjustments in the face of adversity.