Philadelphia Eagles vs. Chicago Bears: Why Fans Could See Déjà Vu Tonight
There is something strangely familiar about tonight’s matchup between the Chicago Bears and Philadelphia Eagles.
Last season, the Bears traveled to Philadelphia to face the defending Super Bowl champions. What happened that afternoon arguably became one of the defining moments of the season and, perhaps more importantly, marked the beginning of what would become the Ben Johnson era in Chicago.
The Bears leaned heavily on their rushing attack, controlled the line of scrimmage and ran all over the Eagles in Philadelphia.
Now, nearly a year later, the two teams meet again and Bears fans could be in for another case of déjà vu.
The Ground Game Could Once Again Be the Difference
The biggest similarity between last season's matchup and tonight's game could come down to how Chicago attacks Philadelphia on the ground.
The Bears have already shown a willingness to rely on their running game with Caleb Williams at quarterback. But with reports indicating that Case Keenum could get the start tonight, that approach could become even more important.
Keenum was brought to Chicago as the team's third quarterback, and while he certainly has the experience to surprise people, there are legitimate questions about how much he can provide as a starter at this stage of his career.
That could force Chicago to simplify the game plan.
Philadelphia's Run Defense Has Been Tested
The Eagles' recent numbers against the run might initially suggest that running the football won't be easy.
Philadelphia allowed 122 rushing yards and a touchdown against Washington before allowing another 122 rushing yards against Tennessee. On the surface, those numbers can be interpreted as evidence that the Eagles' defense has done a respectable job limiting opposing rushing attacks.
But context matters.
Washington and Tennessee do not possess the same rushing attack that Chicago can bring to the table.
The Bears have made the running game an important part of their offensive identity, and tonight's quarterback situation could make that emphasis even greater.
If Chicago can consistently create positive plays on the ground, it could keep the Eagles' defense honest, shorten the game and allow the Bears to avoid putting too much responsibility on Keenum.
The Bigger Outlook
Last season, the Bears' rushing attack helped them overwhelm Philadelphia and produced a performance that became a significant part of the story surrounding Johnson's arrival in Chicago.
Tonight, the circumstances are different.
This time, it isn't necessarily about showcasing a new offensive philosophy. It could simply be about survival.
With Keenum potentially making his first start for the Bears, Chicago may have little choice but to make the running game the centerpiece of its offensive strategy.
Of course, Keenum could surprise everyone. If he plays efficiently and protects the football, the Bears' offensive possibilities expand considerably.
But if the passing game struggles, Chicago's best path may once again be on the ground.
And if Bears fans start seeing their team consistently ripping off runs against Philadelphia tonight, they may get a very familiar feeling.
Déjà vu.
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