On Sunday, September 29, 2024, the Chicago Bears and the Los Angeles Rams will face off in a highly anticipated NFL showdown. This Week 4 matchup is crucial for both teams as they aim to establish their place in the league early in the season. The game kicks off at 12:00 PM CT and will be broadcast live on TV with several options for live streaming available, including FuboTV and Hulu + Live TV.
Both the Bears and the Rams are looking to bounce back from underwhelming seasons in 2023. The Bears, led by emerging quarterback Justin Fields, are hoping to take the next step toward contention after making key offseason moves to improve their roster. On the other hand, the Rams, who are just a couple of years removed from their Super Bowl LVI victory, are in a retooling phase under head coach Sean McVay and veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford.
In this in-depth preview, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the game, including how to watch, team breakdowns, key players, odds, and predictions.
How to Watch Bears vs. Rams
If you’re planning to watch this exciting Week 4 matchup between the Bears and Rams, there are plenty of ways to catch the action, both on TV and via live stream.
1. Television Broadcast
The game will be broadcast nationally on FOX. FOX is one of the NFL’s primary broadcasting networks, and their coverage includes some of the best production values and commentary in the league. Be sure to check your local FOX affiliate for exact channel information.
2. Streaming Options
For fans who prefer to stream the game, there are several excellent streaming services that offer live coverage of NFL games, including:
- FuboTV: FuboTV is one of the premier platforms for sports streaming. With access to FOX, you can watch the Bears vs. Rams live. The service offers a free trial for new users and includes DVR capabilities, so you can record the game and watch it later.
- Hulu + Live TV: Hulu’s Live TV package includes FOX in its lineup, giving you the ability to stream this game live. Hulu + Live TV also comes with access to Hulu’s massive on-demand library, making it a great option for both live sports and other entertainment.
- Sling TV: Sling TV’s Blue package offers FOX in select markets, making it another cost-effective option to stream the game live. Sling TV also includes a cloud DVR feature, allowing you to save the game for later.
- NFL Plus: The NFL’s official streaming service, NFL Plus, allows you to watch live local and primetime games on mobile devices and tablets. This is a great option for those who want to watch on the go.
- YouTube TV: YouTube TV carries FOX in most markets, offering another way to stream the game live. YouTube TV includes unlimited DVR storage, meaning you can record the game and rewatch it at your convenience.
- Paramount+: Although primarily a CBS-based service, Paramount+ may also stream some FOX games, depending on your region and available options.
Game Preview: Chicago Bears vs. Los Angeles Rams
This game marks an important juncture for both the Bears and the Rams. The Bears are a young team on the rise, with high expectations for Justin Fields to develop into one of the league’s top quarterbacks. Meanwhile, the Rams are trying to prove that they can still compete at a high level with a core of veterans, even after a disappointing 2023 season.
Chicago Bears Overview
The Bears enter the 2024 season with a lot of excitement surrounding their young talent, particularly Justin Fields. After a promising 2023 campaign in which Fields showed significant improvement as both a passer and a runner, the Bears made key additions to help him take the next step. One of the most significant moves was trading for star wide receiver D.J. Moore, giving Fields a true No. 1 target to complement Darnell Mooney and Chase Claypool.
The Bears also focused on bolstering their offensive line during the offseason, drafting Darnell Wright in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. With improved protection and more weapons, the Bears’ offense looks poised to be much more explosive in 2024. Fields’ ability to make plays with his legs and his continued development as a passer will be critical to the team’s success.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Bears are looking to improve after struggling in 2023. Led by veteran linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, who was signed during the offseason, and young cornerback Kyler Gordon, the Bears’ defense will need to step up to compete in the tough NFC North. The addition of Yannick Ngakoue as a pass rusher is also expected to help shore up the Bears’ defensive front.
Key Players for the Bears:
- Justin Fields (QB): Fields is the centerpiece of the Bears’ rebuild. His dual-threat ability makes him one of the most dangerous young quarterbacks in the NFL. Against the Rams, Fields will need to make smart decisions and take advantage of any opportunities to exploit a Rams defense that has some question marks in the secondary.
- D.J. Moore (WR): Moore’s arrival in Chicago gives Fields a dynamic receiving option who can stretch the field and make plays after the catch. Moore has been a consistent performer throughout his career and will be looking to establish early chemistry with Fields.
- Tremaine Edmunds (LB): The Bears signed Edmunds to be the leader of their defense. A two-time Pro Bowler, Edmunds brings versatility and athleticism to the linebacker position, and his ability to cover ground and make tackles will be vital against a Rams offense that likes to spread the field.
- Yannick Ngakoue (DE): The Bears lacked a consistent pass rush in 2023, and Ngakoue was brought in to help remedy that. He will be tasked with getting after Matthew Stafford and making sure the Rams’ passing game doesn’t get into a rhythm.
Los Angeles Rams Overview
The Rams are in an interesting phase as they look to return to their Super Bowl-contending form. After an injury-plagued 2023 season that saw Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp miss significant time, the Rams are hopeful that a healthy roster in 2024 will allow them to be more competitive in the NFC West. However, the team is also dealing with the reality of having several aging veterans, and some of their top stars are no longer in their prime.
The offense will again rely on Stafford and Kupp, but they’ll need more from the supporting cast if they’re going to keep up with the rest of the league’s high-powered offenses. The Rams’ running game, led by Cam Akers, will need to be more consistent to take pressure off Stafford. The offensive line, which struggled with injuries and performance issues in 2023, must provide better protection for their veteran quarterback.
On defense, the Rams still have Aaron Donald, arguably the best defensive player of the last decade. Donald can disrupt any offense by himself, but the Rams’ defense as a whole is in transition, with younger, less proven players needing to step up. The secondary is a concern, with Jalen Ramsey having been traded to the Miami Dolphins, leaving a void at the cornerback position.
Key Players for the Rams:
- Matthew Stafford (QB): Stafford’s health will be the biggest question mark for the Rams heading into 2024. When healthy, Stafford is still capable of putting up big numbers, but he’ll need to stay upright behind a suspect offensive line. His connection with Cooper Kupp will be key to the Rams’ offensive success.
- Cooper Kupp (WR): Kupp remains one of the most productive and reliable wide receivers in the NFL. He is a matchup nightmare for defenses due to his route-running ability and chemistry with Stafford. The Bears will need to devise a plan to contain him, or he could single-handedly take over the game.
- Aaron Donald (DT): Donald is a future Hall of Famer and continues to be the most dominant defensive lineman in the league. Even in the later stages of his career, Donald can wreck an opposing offense’s game plan. The Bears’ offensive line will have its hands full trying to keep him away from Justin Fields.
- Cam Akers (RB): Akers has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency. For the Rams to succeed, Akers will need to provide balance to the offense by establishing the running game early and taking pressure off Stafford.
Key Matchups to Watch
As always, there are several intriguing matchups to watch in this game, and these will likely determine the outcome.
1. Justin Fields vs. Rams Secondary
Fields has the ability to make big plays with both his arm and his legs. However, the Rams’ defense, even with its younger secondary, can still cause problems for young quarterbacks. With D.J. Moore and other weapons at his disposal, Fields will be looking to test the Rams’ secondary early and often. If the Rams’ defensive backs can contain the Bears’ wideouts, it could force Fields into uncomfortable situations. On the other hand, if Fields can exploit this matchup, the Bears’ offense might have a big day.
2. Aaron Donald vs. Bears Offensive Line
There are few more terrifying sights for an offensive line than Aaron Donald lined up across from them. The Bears’ offensive line will face one of their toughest tests of the season in trying to contain the three-time Defensive Player of the Year. Donald is a one-man wrecking crew, capable of collapsing the pocket and disrupting both the run and pass game. Chicago’s offensive linemen, particularly first-round pick Darnell Wright and veteran Cody Whitehair, will need to bring their A-game to prevent Donald from wreaking havoc. If Donald can penetrate the line and put pressure on Justin Fields, the Bears’ offense could struggle to find a rhythm.
3. Matthew Stafford vs. Bears’ Secondary
While Stafford is a proven veteran, his matchup against a talented but young Bears secondary is one to watch. Stafford will look to attack Chicago’s defense, particularly with his favorite target Cooper Kupp. However, the Bears’ secondary, led by rising star Jaquan Brisker and cornerback Kyler Gordon, has the potential to hold its own. If Chicago can generate pressure up front, Stafford could be forced into making quick decisions, giving the secondary an opportunity to capitalize on potential mistakes. The Rams will need Stafford to make smart, decisive throws to avoid giving Chicago’s opportunistic defense extra chances.
4. Cooper Kupp vs. Bears’ Defensive Backs
One of the NFL’s most elite wide receivers, Cooper Kupp is known for his precise route-running and ability to find open space against any defense. The Bears will likely have to bracket Kupp with multiple defenders, possibly Jaylon Johnson or Tyrique Stevenson in man coverage, with safety help over the top. Even then, Kupp has shown he can still get open. If the Bears cannot contain him, Kupp could easily be the key factor in the Rams’ offensive success. A strong performance from Chicago’s defensive backs will be critical in neutralizing Stafford’s top target.
5. Bears’ Running Game vs. Rams’ Defensive Front
The Bears’ running game, led by Khalil Herbert, D’Onta Foreman, and rookie Roschon Johnson, will look to establish itself against a Rams defense that, while still strong up front thanks to Donald, has lost depth in recent years. Chicago’s commitment to the run will help take pressure off Fields and prevent the Rams’ pass rush from teeing off on him. If the Bears can establish a ground game early, it could open up play-action opportunities for Fields to exploit downfield. However, if Donald and the Rams’ defensive line can shut down the run, it will make Chicago one-dimensional and easier to defend.
6. Rams’ Offensive Line vs. Bears’ Pass Rush
The Rams’ offensive line has been a point of concern, especially after struggling with injuries and inconsistency in 2023. Matthew Stafford will need solid protection to connect with his receivers, but he may face pressure from a Bears defense looking to improve its pass rush. Chicago will rely on Yannick Ngakoue, Demarcus Walker, and Tremaine Edmunds to apply pressure and disrupt Stafford’s timing. If the Bears’ pass rush can get to Stafford, it could result in sacks, turnovers, and a disruptive day for the Rams’ offense.
Odds and Predictions
Heading into the Week 4 matchup, the Rams are slight favorites, with sportsbooks predicting a closely contested game.
Current Odds:
- Los Angeles Rams: -3 (favorites)
- Chicago Bears: +3 (underdogs)
- Over/Under: 45.5 points
The Rams’ experience, combined with home-field advantage, gives them the edge in this contest, but the Bears have enough talent to pull off an upset. With both teams coming off rebuilding or injury-affected seasons, this game is seen as a key moment to gauge where each team stands in 2024.
Prediction:
- Final Score Prediction: Rams 27, Bears 23
The Rams have a slight edge due to their veteran leadership on offense and the presence of Aaron Donald on defense. Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp should be able to make enough plays to outpace the Bears’ young and developing roster. However, expect Justin Fields to show flashes of brilliance, keeping the Bears competitive throughout the game. In the end, the Rams’ experience and ability to control the tempo may prove decisive in securing the win.
Key Storylines to Watch
1. Justin Fields’ Continued Development
All eyes will be on Justin Fields as he enters his third NFL season. The young quarterback showed significant improvement in 2023, particularly with his running ability and deep ball accuracy. However, the 2024 season is crucial for Fields to prove that he can be the franchise quarterback the Bears need. Fields will be tested by a Rams defense that, despite some question marks in the secondary, still boasts one of the best pass rushers in the game in Aaron Donald. Fields’ ability to stay composed under pressure, make quick decisions, and continue to progress as a passer will be vital to the Bears’ success.
2. Can Matthew Stafford Still Perform at a High Level?
After missing much of the 2023 season with injuries, the big question for the Rams is whether Matthew Stafford can return to his Super Bowl-winning form. Stafford has dealt with several injuries throughout his career, and at age 36, he’s no longer in his prime. However, when healthy, Stafford remains one of the most accurate and effective quarterbacks in the league. His ability to stay healthy and lead the Rams’ offense will be a critical factor in their 2024 campaign. This matchup against a young Bears defense will provide a good test for Stafford early in the season.
3. Aaron Donald’s Impact
Even as he enters the latter stages of his career, Aaron Donald is still one of the most feared defensive players in the NFL. The Rams rely on Donald’s ability to disrupt offenses, whether by getting after the quarterback or stuffing the run. For the Bears, keeping Donald in check will be a top priority, especially with a young quarterback like Fields. If Donald can impose his will on the game, the Bears’ offense could struggle to get going. On the other hand, if the Bears’ offensive line can neutralize Donald, it would be a significant boost to their chances of success.
4. The Rams’ Secondary Without Jalen Ramsey
The departure of star cornerback Jalen Ramsey has left the Rams’ secondary in a state of flux. While the team still has talented players in the defensive backfield, they lack the lockdown presence that Ramsey provided. This opens up opportunities for Justin Fields and the Bears’ passing attack to exploit mismatches, particularly with the addition of D.J. Moore. How the Rams’ secondary holds up against the Bears’ receivers will be a key factor in determining the outcome of the game.
5. NFC Playoff Implications
While it’s still early in the season, this game could have significant playoff implications down the road. Both the Bears and the Rams are vying for position in their respective divisions and conference standings. With the NFC as competitive as ever, every win counts. A victory here could serve as a springboard for the rest of the season, giving the winning team confidence as they move forward. For the Bears, a win on the road against a veteran team like the Rams would be a statement that they are ready to compete at a high level in 2024.
Final Thoughts
The Chicago Bears vs. Los Angeles Rams matchup on September 29, 2024, promises to be an exciting and pivotal game for both teams. The Bears, led by their emerging star quarterback Justin Fields, are looking to prove they can compete with the league’s best, while the Rams, with their veteran core of Matthew Stafford, Cooper Kupp, and Aaron Donald, are hoping to reassert themselves as contenders in the NFC. Both teams have plenty to play for, and the outcome could set the tone for the rest of their seasons.
With multiple ways to watch the game, including on FOX, FuboTV, and Hulu + Live TV, fans won’t want to miss this crucial Week 4 contest. Whether you’re rooting for the Bears or the Rams, this game is sure to provide plenty of excitement and drama as two teams with playoff aspirations go head-to-head.
