The 2024 NFL season gets underway with an intriguing matchup between the Chicago Bears and the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at 12:00 PM CT. Both teams are eager to start their campaigns with a victory, and this early-season clash at Nissan Stadium in Nashville promises to offer plenty of action. This game pits two teams in transition, both with something to prove, and could provide a thrilling contest for NFL fans. Here’s everything you need to know about the game, including how to watch, key players to keep an eye on, game previews, and live-streaming options.
Game Details
- Matchup: Chicago Bears vs. Tennessee Titans
- Date: Sunday, September 8, 2024
- Time: 12:00 PM CT
- Venue: Nissan Stadium, Nashville, Tennessee
- Tv: Fox
- Tickets: as low as $190
How to Watch
For fans looking to catch the game live, there are multiple options available:
- TV Broadcast: The game will be broadcast nationally on FOX, so check your local listings to find the channel.
- Live Streaming: Several platforms will carry the live stream of the game:
- FuboTV: Known for its extensive sports coverage, FuboTV offers a package that includes FOX, making it a top choice for NFL fans.
- Hulu + Live TV: Another popular streaming service, Hulu + Live TV, also carries FOX, providing another avenue for watching the game.
- NFL+: The NFL’s own streaming service offers live local and primetime games on mobile devices, giving fans flexibility in how they watch.
Game Preview
Chicago Bears Overview
The Chicago Bears are coming off a 2023 season where they showed flashes of potential, but also plenty of areas needing improvement. The Bears, under head coach Matt Eberflus, are focused on developing their young core, especially around quarterback Justin Fields. Fields, entering his fourth NFL season, is expected to take a significant leap forward, both in terms of decision-making and consistency. The Bears have made key offseason moves, bringing in new talent to bolster their offensive line and receiving corps to provide Fields with more support.
On defense, the Bears are looking to regain the form that made them a formidable unit in past seasons. They have invested heavily in their front seven through the draft and free agency, aiming to put more pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The Bears’ secondary, featuring standout safety Eddie Jackson and young cornerback Kyler Gordon, will be tested against Tennessee’s receiving threats.
Tennessee Titans Overview
The Tennessee Titans enter the 2024 season with questions of their own. After a disappointing 2023 campaign, the Titans are in the midst of a retooling phase under head coach Mike Vrabel. The team still boasts a strong running game led by star running back Derrick Henry, but questions remain about the quarterback position. Will Ryan Tannehill continue as the starter, or will we see more from the young and promising Malik Willis or rookie Will Levis?
Defensively, the Titans have always been a tough and physical team under Vrabel’s guidance. The defensive front, featuring standout Jeffery Simmons and veteran Harold Landry, will look to dominate the line of scrimmage and create turnovers. Tennessee’s secondary, which has been a point of concern in recent seasons, will need to step up against an improved Bears passing attack.
Key Matchups to Watch
1. Justin Fields vs. Titans’ Defense
Justin Fields’ development is crucial for the Bears’ offense, and his performance in this game will be a key storyline. Fields has shown he can make plays with both his arm and legs, but the Titans’ defense, led by Mike Vrabel, will look to contain him in the pocket and force him into mistakes. Fields’ ability to read Tennessee’s defensive schemes and make quick decisions will be pivotal.
2. Derrick Henry vs. Bears’ Front Seven
Derrick Henry remains one of the most dominant running backs in the NFL, and the Bears’ defense will have their hands full trying to stop him. Chicago’s front seven, particularly the linebackers, will need to play a disciplined game to prevent Henry from breaking off big runs. Look for players like Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards to be heavily involved in trying to contain Henry.
3. Bears’ Offensive Line vs. Titans’ Pass Rush
The Bears have invested heavily in their offensive line, but they will face a stiff test against the Titans’ formidable pass rush. Jeffery Simmons, one of the most disruptive interior linemen in the league, will be key to Tennessee’s defensive game plan. Chicago’s ability to protect Justin Fields will determine whether they can execute their offensive strategy effectively.
4. Titans’ QB Situation vs. Bears’ Secondary
The Titans’ quarterback situation remains fluid, with Ryan Tannehill, Malik Willis, and Will Levis all potential starters. Whoever is under center will face a challenging test against the Bears’ secondary, led by Eddie Jackson. The key for Tennessee will be to establish a rhythm early, avoid turnovers, and test Chicago’s defensive backs with deep throws.
5. Darnell Mooney vs. Titans’ Cornerbacks
Darnell Mooney has emerged as a reliable target for Justin Fields, and his speed and route-running will be critical in this game. The Titans’ cornerbacks will need to play tight coverage to prevent Mooney from getting open deep. Look for the Titans to mix up coverages and possibly double Mooney to limit his impact.
Players to Watch
Chicago Bears
- Justin Fields, QB: The Bears’ young quarterback will be under the spotlight. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs will be crucial for Chicago’s offense.
- D.J. Moore, WR: Acquired in a blockbuster trade, Moore is expected to be the top target for Fields. His ability to make plays downfield will test Tennessee’s secondary.
- Eddie Jackson, S: The leader of the Bears’ secondary, Jackson’s ability to read the quarterback and make plays on the ball will be vital in containing Tennessee’s passing attack.
- Tremaine Edmunds, LB: A key offseason acquisition, Edmunds will play a crucial role in trying to limit Derrick Henry and patrolling the middle of the field.
Tennessee Titans
- Derrick Henry, RB: The star running back is always a threat to take over a game. The Titans will rely heavily on Henry to control the clock and keep the Bears’ defense on its heels.
- Jeffery Simmons, DT: One of the best interior defensive linemen in the NFL, Simmons’ ability to disrupt the Bears’ offensive line will be key to Tennessee’s success.
- Ryan Tannehill, QB / Malik Willis, QB / Will Levis, QB: The quarterback position remains a question for the Titans. Whoever starts will need to perform well against a rejuvenated Bears defense.
- Harold Landry, OLB: Returning from injury, Landry’s pass-rushing ability will be crucial in putting pressure on Justin Fields and forcing mistakes.
Odds and Predictions
The current odds favor the Tennessee Titans by 3 points, reflecting their home-field advantage and more established roster. The over/under is set at 44.5 points, indicating a potentially close and moderately low-scoring game.
Prediction:
- Tennessee Titans 24, Chicago Bears 21
- This game is expected to be competitive, with both teams showcasing strengths and trying to exploit the other’s weaknesses. The Titans’ home advantage and Derrick Henry’s impact give them a slight edge, but the Bears could surprise if Justin Fields plays to his potential.
How to Live Stream
For those looking to stream the game online, here are some great options:
- FuboTV: Offers an extensive sports package that includes FOX, making it ideal for NFL fans. FuboTV often provides free trials for new subscribers.
- Hulu + Live TV: Carries FOX and a range of sports channels, making it a versatile choice for live streaming.
- NFL+: The NFL’s official streaming service allows fans to watch live local and primetime games on mobile devices, with access to full game replays.
The Chicago Bears vs. Tennessee Titans matchup is an exciting start to the 2024 NFL season, featuring two teams looking to set the tone for the year ahead. With questions surrounding both franchises, this game provides a chance for key players like Justin Fields and Derrick Henry to make a statement. Whether you’re watching on TV, streaming online, or following along via live updates, this game is sure to deliver plenty of drama and excitement.