The Chicago Bears are headed down to Atlanta, looking to get back in the win column with a matchup against the Falcons, who feature a high-powered offense. After an abysmal showing on both offense and defense last week against Green Bay, the Bears need to have this game against the Falcons to find their rhythm again, although there’s no official word on the return of Caleb Williams at quarterback.
Having missed the last three weeks due to a hamstring injury, Williams has been back at practice multiple days this week, and whether it’s gamesmanship or just final clearance, the Bears are holding the cards close to their chest with his availability. Williams will be a much-needed presence for the offense, who will be without Kyle Monangai, hurting their game plan in the run game.
There will be plenty of fun reasons to watch this game, and most of that points to the individual matchups we will see on the field. Here are the top three matchups for the Bears and Falcons on Sunday.
Bears DE Austin Booker vs. Falcons LT Jake Matthews
With Montez Sweat suspended for two games, Austin Booker will have to step up and be the team's top pass rusher going into this game. Depending on where he's lined up, Booker may find himself against the NFL's Iron Man in Jake Matthews, one of the key pieces to Atlanta's very tough offensive line, giving Booker the ultimate opportunity to prove himself.
Bears CB Jaylon Johnson vs. Falcons WR Drake London
The Bears top cornerback has struggled in man coverage this season, and it's clear that the bloom is off the rose with the fans who just want more from their top guy. With Michael Penix in at quarterback, Drake London has feasted on opposing defenses and has looked like an All-Pro receiver that could create problems for Johnson throughout the game.
Bears DC Dennis Allen vs. Falcons RB Bijan Robinson
Dennis Allen is going to have his hands full with no Montez Sweat or T.J. Edwards, while trying to find an answer on how to contain Bijan Robinson. Being down two of his top weapons would've made it a difficult time to game plan for any opponent, but Robinson's explosiveness and ability to turn one play into a score is going to have to force Allen to get creative with his play calling.
Bears HC Ben Johnson vs. starting lineups
Will Caleb Williams play or not? Ben Johnson has made it clear that he will look for any competitive advantage he can against opponents, and while most teams are ruling out their injured players by Friday, Williams, who has practiced in full heading into the weekend, is still listed questionable. It appears Johnson is still keep things tight lipped on who will be out there, although all signs are pointing to Williams making his return.
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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: 4 key matchups for Bears vs. Falcons in Week 6