The Chicago Sun-Times’ expert offer their picks for Bears-Lions in Week 14.
RICK MORRISSEY
Lions, 24-17
We should get a better idea of what Bears quarterback Matt Barkley is this week. He is coming off good performances against bad defenses. The Lions intercepted Drew Brees three times last week. Season: 7-5
RICK TELANDER
Lions, 29-12
Bad luck. God luck. High draft choices. Low draft choices. Who knows where the Bears go or what they care about? I’m thinking this odd-ball team of players I’ve barely heard of can’t beat a team that should actually care about winning. Season: 4-8
ADAM L. JAHNS
Lions, 24-20
The Lions have gone 7-1 since losing to the Bears in Week 4. Quarterback Matthew Stafford, in particular, has been great since then. He might be just the league’s most valuable player by the end of the season. I still think that the Bears’ defense can keep things tight, while quarterback Matt Barkley has good moments. But it won’t be enough. Season: 7-5
PATRICK FINLEY
Lions, 24-18
Can nine wins take the NFC North? The Lions’ game Sunday might be their last chance to get there. The rest of their schedule — against the Giants and Cowboys on the road and Packers at home — gives them a sense of urgency against the Bears. Season: 8-4
MARK POTASH
Lions, 27-17
The Bears’ defense shut down Matthew Stafford and the Lions’ offense in a 17-14 victory at Soldier Field. But the Lions are playing better, are better at Ford Field, and two of the Bears’ worst defensive performances came indoors — at Dallas (447 yards, 31 points) and Indianapolis (396 yards, 29 points). Season: 6-6