Oct 11, 2024 - Sports

What to watch for: Chicago Bears in London

Justin Kaufmann

Photo of a football player running away from a tackler on a football field — Quarterback Caleb Williams #18 of the Chicago Bears runs with the ball during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers on Oct. 6. Photo: Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images

The Bears (3-2) packed up and flew across the pond this week to take on the Jacksonville Jaguars (1-4) in London.

The big picture: Each year, the NFL shuttles a few games to London as part of a marketing campaign to attract more European fans to the sport. The Bears last played in London in 2019.

State of play: This game amounts to a nationally televised game for the Bears.

Yes, but: Nationally televised at 8:30am CT.

The intrigue: The Bears opted to fly to London on Tuesday to get a leg up on adjusting to the time difference. The Jaguars elected to fly out later in the week and were delayed by Hurricane Milton.

What to watch for: Rookie Caleb Williams is improving each week. In last week's win, the quarterback threw for over 300 yards and didn't turn the ball over. This week, wide receiver DJ Moore jokingly called the young leader "bossy." That's a good sign when you are in charge of running an offense.

Also, the defense has yet to give up more than 21 points all season.

The bug: The Bears have escaped big injuries this season, but this week will be their biggest challenge. They are playing without star safety Jaquan Brisker (concussion) and offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (ankle).

The other side: They may be sleep-deprived from travel, but don't sleep on the Jaguars. The 1-4 team has started slow, but they are still projected to compete for a playoff spot in the AFC.

Prediction: Bears tour the Thames, eat bangers & mash and beat the Jaguars, 27-17.

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What to watch for: Chicago Bears in London

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