The Sun-Times’ experts offer their picks for the Bears’ Thursday night game against the Cowboys:
RICK MORRISSEY
Cowboys, 21-17
The Bears’ success this season has come against weak teams. I expect them to raise their game against the 6-6 Cowboys, who are a step up in class. But Dallas, which has a realistic chance of making the playoffs, is playing for more than the Bears are. Season: 7-5.
RICK TELANDER
Cowboys, 24-21
I often wonder if Jerry Jones, face-lift and all, is a spark or impediment for the Cowboys. The owner rails at those who screw up, which means coach Jason Garrett is ever under the gun. Garrett and players can’t afford to go sub-.500. Season: 8-4.
PATRICK FINLEY
Bears, 17-16
Both teams are 3-5 since September ended, with the Bears beating the Lions (twice) and Giants and the Cowboys defeating the Eagles, Giants and Lions. The Bears have beaten one team all year that’s currently above .500, the Cowboys zero. Give me the home ’dog. Season: 8-4.
MARK POTASH
Cowboys, 21-17
Mitch Trubisky’s three-touchdown performance against the Lions on Thanksgiving could be a springboard toward a big finish for the Bears — especially at home against a flawed Cowboys team. But at this point, you have to see it to believe it. Season: 7-5.
JASON LIESER
Cowboys, 13-10
The Bears have feasted on bad teams lately, and the Cowboys are a clear step up from the Giants and Lions. Dallas is very good against the pass, which doesn’t bode well for Trubisky continuing his mini-hot streak. This is the most winnable game the Bears have left, but their total body of work is discouraging. Season: 7-5.