Seahawks vs. Bears Thursday Night Football Picks: Seattle Will Extend Chicago’s Losing Streak

Seattle Seahawks

In their final home game of the regular season, the Seattle Seahawks battled hard against the Minnesota Vikings, a team among the NFL’s elite. Seattle even held a 24-20 lead with under five minutes remaining, but Sam Darnold delivered the decisive blow with a 39-yard touchdown pass to Justin Jefferson, sealing a 27-24 victory for Minnesota on Sunday.

Geno Smith turned in a strong performance, completing 31 of 43 passes for 314 yards and three touchdowns against one of the league’s top defenses. However, his night was marred by two costly interceptions—a first-half pick that set up a Vikings field goal and a game-ending interception by rookie safety Theo Jackson, possibly due to a miscommunication with DK Metcalf.

The Seahawks leaned heavily on their passing game, making little effort to establish the run. Kenneth Walker III managed just 31 yards on eight carries. Jaxon Smith-Njigba shone in the air attack, catching eight passes for 95 yards and a touchdown, while DK Metcalf contributed three catches for 57 yards and a score.

Now sitting at 8-7, Seattle faces a must-win scenario on Thursday against the Bears to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears are reeling after a 34-17 loss to the Detroit Lions on Sunday, marking their ninth consecutive defeat. Caleb Williams showed improvement, throwing for 334 yards and two touchdowns after a rough stretch of games. However, the Bears failed to mount much of a challenge, dropping to 1-5 in their last six meetings with Detroit.

Keenan Allen was a bright spot for Chicago, hauling in nine receptions for a season-high 141 yards, including a 45-yard touchdown just before halftime. Rome Odunze added 77 yards receiving, while Cole Kmet contributed a touchdown catch.

Key Matchups

Both teams enter with glaring weaknesses, but the Seahawks have the edge in motivation and offensive firepower, while the Bears bring a promising passing attack led by Williams, albeit hampered by inconsistency.

Geno Smith vs. the Bears’ Secondary

Smith was impressive against the Vikings, throwing for over 300 yards and three touchdowns. However, his two interceptions proved costly, including a game-sealing pick.

Chicago’s defense hasn’t shown much ability to generate turnovers during their losing streak, but rookie safety Jackson’s game-ending interception last week for Minnesota could serve as a cautionary tale for Smith.

If Smith can replicate his recent form while avoiding costly mistakes, the Seahawks should be able to exploit the Bears’ struggling secondary.

Seahawks’ Receivers vs. Bears’ Defense

Smith-Njigba and Metcalf provide a dynamic duo for Seattle. Smith-Njigba is coming off an impressive eight-catch, 95-yard performance with a touchdown against the Vikings, while Metcalf added a score of his own.

The Bears struggled against Detroit’s receivers. If Chicago cannot shore up their coverage, Smith-Njigba and Metcalf could have big nights.

Caleb Williams vs. Seahawks’ Defense

After a string of poor outings, Williams bounced back with a 334-yard, two-touchdown performance against Detroit. However, the Bears failed to capitalize on his production due to other offensive shortcomings.

Seattle’s defense, which has struggled to close games, will need to pressure Williams and prevent him from finding a rhythm. Williams’ ability to create plays under duress will be tested against a Seattle team desperate to make stops.

Running Game and Control of the Clock

Neither team has impressed on the ground recently. Walker III managed just 31 yards on eight carries against Minnesota, and the Bears have been similarly ineffective running the ball. The team that can establish some semblance of a ground game may gain a crucial edge in controlling the tempo and keeping their defense fresh.

Special Teams and Turnovers

In a game likely to feature two pass-heavy offenses, turnovers and special teams could swing the outcome. The Seahawks cannot afford a repeat of their mistakes against Minnesota, while the Bears must avoid the miscues that have plagued them throughout their losing streak.

The Pick

This game is likely to be a back-and-forth affair, with both quarterbacks airing it out and relying on their playmakers. Seattle’s playoff aspirations should provide the extra spark they need to overcome Chicago’s inconsistent defense.

Williams will keep it close for a while with a few highlight-worthy plays, but Smith’s veteran presence and the Seahawks’ superior receiving corps should carry the day.

NFL Pick: Seahawks -2.5 (-120) at BetOnline 

Seahawks -2.5 (-120)

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