The Chicago Bears are gearing up to face the Philadelphia Eagles on Black Friday, hoping to capitalize on any discontent among Eagles fans. With the Bears on a winning streak, they are set to challenge an Eagles team looking to rebound from a recent loss.
Bears safety Kevin Byard, a former member of the Eagles, has expressed that he expects a “hostile” atmosphere when the two teams clash. He believes the Bears can take advantage of any potential weaknesses in the Eagles” game plan.
The Eagles, coming off a defeat against the Dallas Cowboys, will be aiming to rectify their offensive struggles during this Week 13 matchup. They are currently favored by seven points despite their recent setback, which saw them lose after leading 21-0.
Byard is well aware of the frustrations voiced by Eagles fans regarding the team”s offensive performance. “If their offense goes three-and-out to start the game, they”re going to start booing them,” he noted, highlighting the intense environment they will face.
Byard, who joined the Bears after being released by the Eagles in March 2024, has a unique perspective on both teams. He remarked on the winning mentality prevalent in Philadelphia, stating, “They have a winning culture, they have a winning mentality. We preach 60 minutes. We know they”re going to be a 60-minute team as well.”
As the Bears prepare to face the Eagles, Byard emphasizes the need to respect the defending Super Bowl champions. “Stats for the entire offense have been down, but they”re finding ways to win. I think that”s just a testament of their culture and our culture,” he added.
Bears quarterback Caleb Williams is also looking forward to the challenge, having faced Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts in the past. Williams expressed the importance of making the most of the opportunity ahead of him.
Looking at the Eagles” offensive strategy, the Bears are preparing to counteract the Tush Push play that has garnered attention in the league. “We do have a plan in place. We feel like it”s a good, solid plan in terms of not only trying to stop that play but all of the plays that come off of it,” Byard stated.
Bears head coach Ben Johnson acknowledged the challenge posed by the Eagles” defense, particularly under the guidance of Vic Fangio, who has a reputation for being ahead of opposing play-callers. “It”ll be a challenge here just to make sure that we”re trying to keep him as off balance as we possibly can,” Johnson said.
As both teams prepare for this high-stakes matchup, the excitement and tension surrounding the game are palpable, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter on Black Friday.
