Jets vs. Bears preview: Chicago’s big, bold QB test at 2-1

Dustin Judge
Soldier Field in Chicago, site of the Jets vs. Bears preview matchup

Chicago’s quarterback question is the story as the New York Jets (1-2) visit the Chicago Bears (2-1) on Sunday. Caleb Williams has a hamstring strain, and the Bears must choose between Case Keenum and Tyson Bagent. This Jets vs. Bears preview covers that decision, the Jets’ offense and the injuries that matter.

Jets vs. Bears preview: game information

The game is set for Sunday afternoon, Oct. 4, at Soldier Field in Chicago, and FOX will televise it, according to theScore.

Who will start at quarterback for the Bears?

Williams has a hamstring strain that is expected to keep him out three to four weeks, according to Magic 98.3. Coach Ben Johnson has not named a starter for Sunday. Bagent has cleared the concussion protocol. Keenum, 38, started Monday night for the first time in 1,009 days, the Jets’ website noted. See our earlier story on Williams’ No. 51 ranking on the NFL Top 100.

Keenum was efficient in a 27-7 win over Philadelphia. He completed 24 of 34 passes for 247 yards and two touchdowns, and he ran for another score, per Yahoo Sports. The Bears forced three turnovers.

Johnson said the staff has a reason Bagent was the No. 2 quarterback. “There was a reason why Tyson ended training camp as our No. 2 quarterback,” he said.

The defense has also been a strength. Chicago held consecutive opponents to fewer than 10 points for the first time since 2012, the Jets said in their game preview.

Jets vs. Bears preview: can the Jets turn yards into wins?

New York has played better than its record. Quarterback Geno Smith leads the NFL with a 75.5% completion rate and has four touchdowns and no interceptions, according to the team’s preview. He threw for 321 yards and three touchdowns in a 31-24 loss at Detroit, per amNY.

The Jets also lost in overtime to Green Bay. Receiver Garrett Wilson has 21 catches for 243 yards and two touchdowns, according to On Tap Sports Net, and had 10 catches for 107 yards against the Lions.

Jets vs. Bears preview: key matchup

The matchup to watch is the Bears’ ground game against a Jets defense that needs a stop. D’Andre Swift has 253 rushing yards and three touchdowns this season, theScore reported. Read more on Chicago’s backfield in our story on the Bears’ running back duo.

Injuries to watch

Jets running back Breece Hall left the Detroit game with a quadriceps injury and is week-to-week, per amNY. Receiver Adonai Mitchell (finger) and tight end Mason Taylor (thumb) are also week-to-week, and receiver Omar Cooper Jr. is out, the team said. Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is scheduled to return; read our report on Fitzpatrick’s injury.

Overall, the Jets vs. Bears preview comes down to Chicago’s quarterback call and whether New York’s offense can finally finish games.

Dustin Judge is the Founder and CEO of Total Apex Media, bringing more than 20 years of writing and editorial experience to the company's growing network of digital publications. He specializes in sports, sports betting, fantasy sports, and digital publishing, with a focus on producing accurate, timely, and engaging content for readers. Dustin oversees editorial strategy, content development, and publishing operations across Total Apex Media while remaining actively involved in sports, betting, and fantasy sports coverage.