The Chicago Bears are set to feature several key starters, including quarterback Caleb Williams, in their upcoming preseason game against the Buffalo Bills.

Why it matters: This game represents a critical opportunity for the Bears to assess their roster and build chemistry ahead of the regular season. The participation of starters like Williams and wide receiver DJ Moore is particularly significant as it allows them to develop cohesion within the offensive system.

• Coach Ben Johnson emphasized that "everyone's going to play," signaling a commitment to giving starters valuable in-game experience.
• After tying 24-24 with the Miami Dolphins in their previous preseason outing, the Bears aim to improve their performance against the Bills.

What’s new: The Bears will also host joint practices with the Bills before the game, allowing both teams to simulate game-like scenarios and further refine their strategies.

• Joint practices often serve as a vital tool for evaluating player performance and promoting competitive intensity.
• This will be the Bears' third consecutive week hosting either a practice or a game at Soldier Field, which may help establish a home-field advantage.

Yes, but: While the decision on how long Williams will play remains "to be determined," his lack of participation in the previous game means he needs reps to get acclimated to the speed of NFL gameplay.

• Johnson noted that Williams has gained "80 to 100 more reps" by sitting out the last game, underlining the emphasis placed on training and on-field preparation.
• Building trust among players during these crucial early stages is essential for establishing a solid foundation for the season.

What to watch: Attention will be focused on how effectively Williams integrates with his receiving corps, including Odunze and Zaccheaus, during high-pressure situations.

• The Bears offense is expected to leverage its depth at wide receiver to create mismatches and exploit defensive weaknesses, making this an intriguing matchup against the Bills’ defensive schemes.

The bottom line: As the Bears seek to make strides in their offensive execution, the upcoming game against the Bills will serve as a litmus test for the team's readiness and strategic alignment ahead of the regular season kickoff.

• The performance in this game will not only impact individual evaluations but could also influence final roster decisions as the team prepares for the challenges of the upcoming season.

The Chicago Bears are set to feature several key starters, including quarterback Caleb Williams, in their upcoming preseason game against the Buffalo Bills.

Why it matters: This game represents a critical opportunity for the Bears to assess their roster and build chemistry ahead of the regular season. The participation of starters like Williams and wide receiver DJ Moore is particularly significant as it allows them to develop cohesion within the offensive system.

• Coach Ben Johnson emphasized that "everyone's going to play," signaling a commitment to giving starters valuable in-game experience.
• After tying 24-24 with the Miami Dolphins in their previous preseason outing, the Bears aim to improve their performance against the Bills.

What’s new: The Bears will also host joint practices with the Bills before the game, allowing both teams to simulate game-like scenarios and further refine their strategies.

• Joint practices often serve as a vital tool for evaluating player performance and promoting competitive intensity.
• This will be the Bears' third consecutive week hosting either a practice or a game at Soldier Field, which may help establish a home-field advantage.

Yes, but: While the decision on how long Williams will play remains "to be determined," his lack of participation in the previous game means he needs reps to get acclimated to the speed of NFL gameplay.

• Johnson noted that Williams has gained "80 to 100 more reps" by sitting out the last game, underlining the emphasis placed on training and on-field preparation.
• Building trust among players during these crucial early stages is essential for establishing a solid foundation for the season.

What to watch: Attention will be focused on how effectively Williams integrates with his receiving corps, including Odunze and Zaccheaus, during high-pressure situations.

• The Bears offense is expected to leverage its depth at wide receiver to create mismatches and exploit defensive weaknesses, making this an intriguing matchup against the Bills’ defensive schemes.

The bottom line: As the Bears seek to make strides in their offensive execution, the upcoming game against the Bills will serve as a litmus test for the team's readiness and strategic alignment ahead of the regular season kickoff.

• The performance in this game will not only impact individual evaluations but could also influence final roster decisions as the team prepares for the challenges of the upcoming season.