The Minnesota Vikings visit the Chicago Bears on Monday night at Soldier Field. Kickoff is set for 8:15 PM ET to wrap up Week 1.
Both teams enter 0-0 after busy offseasons. The last meeting here was Dec 16, 2024, a 30-12 Vikings win. Chicago hired Ben Johnson as head coach, while Dennis Allen takes over the Bears’ defense. Minnesota turns to J.J. McCarthy for his first career start.
Bears Preview – New staff, young QB, big test
Ben Johnson makes his head coaching debut after leading record scoring runs in Detroit. He knows Brian Flores well and expects Minnesota to change looks often. Johnson said the plan is to adjust during the game and keep things simple for his offense early.
Caleb Williams starts Year 2 after two strong games vs Minnesota last season. He threw three TDs and no picks in those two meetings with a 96.7 rating. Chicago rebuilt the line with Joe Thuney, Jonah Jackson, and center Drew Dalman to protect him.
The Bears keep adding targets around Williams. The team drafted TE Colston Loveland and WR Luther Burden III this spring after taking Rome Odunze in 2024. Status to watch on defense is CB Jaylon Johnson, who is listed as questionable.
Dennis Allen now runs the Bears’ defense. Expect pressure and a plan to take away early reads. Linebacker T.J. Edwards is doubtful, which could affect coverage and tackling in space.
On offense, Chicago will aim for balance to help Williams. The line has three new starters, so early penalties and protection checks could decide drives. If the run game stays on schedule, play-action opens shot chances.
Special teams and field position matter at Soldier Field. Short fields would help a young unit. Finishing in the red zone is the next step after last season’s progress.
Vikings Preview – Takeaways and disguise under Flores
Brian Flores brings an aggressive, flexible plan. Minnesota tied for the NFL lead with 33 takeaways in 2024 and ranked fifth in points allowed per game. The scheme is built on pressure, disguise, and forcing mistakes.
The Vikings added DTs Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen to fix interior issues. That should help on early downs and on passing downs. If the rush hits, Minnesota can keep two-high shells and rally to the ball.
J.J. McCarthy makes his first start after missing last year with knee injuries. He grew up in the Chicago area and knows this stage well. Expect early throws to All-Pro Justin Jefferson, with Jordan Addison out and veteran Adam Thielen recently added.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell praised Caleb Williams and knows his off-schedule skill. The Vikings will try to keep him in the pocket and close rush lanes. Sound tackling after the catch will be key against Chicago’s young pass catchers.
Injuries to note for Minnesota include S Harrison Smith (doubtful) and LT Christian Darrisaw (questionable). Any reshuffle at tackle would change protections for McCarthy. The run game and quick game can help ease pressure on the rookie.
Game management matters here. Minnesota won in Chicago last December and again in overtime in November. If they avoid turnovers and flip field position with defense, the formula travels well.
Betting Prediction
The market lists Minnesota -1 and total 44. The Covers Score Predictor points to Vikings 23.21, Bears 19.48. That lines up with a tight road win and a total near, but under, the number.
Matchup-wise, Flores’ pressure vs a line with three new starters sets the tone. Williams handled Minnesota well last year, but this is a new scheme cycle with added interior rush. With Addison out, Minnesota likely leans on defense, Jefferson targets, and field position. Projected score: Vikings 23, Bears 20. Lean Vikings -1 and Under 44.
Pick: Vikings -1 and Under 44
