BREAKING: Vikings assemble for Chicago Bears in Week 12 |

BREAKING: Vikings assemble for Chicago Bears in Week 12 |

ANALYSIS”

The Minnesota Vikings (6-5) are set to host the Chicago Bears (3-8) on Monday Night Football in a crucial NFC North showdown in Week 12. Both teams have different motivations entering the game: the Vikings aim to solidify their playoff position, while the Bears look to play spoiler and build momentum for the future.

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Vikings Riding Momentum

The Vikings have been on a roll, winning five of their last six games despite the absence of star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who has been sidelined since Week 5 due to a hamstring injury. Quarterback Josh Dobbs, acquired midseason, has been pivotal in this resurgence. Dubbed the “Pastronaut,” Dobbs has delivered clutch performances with his mobility and adaptability, invigorating the offense alongside rookie wideout Jordan Addison and veteran tight end T.J. Hockenson.

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Defensively, Brian Flores’ aggressive scheme has transformed the Vikings into one of the league’s most disruptive units. Danielle Hunter, leading the NFL in sacks, anchors a defensive front that thrives on pressure. The secondary, led by Harrison Smith and Byron Murphy Jr., will play a key role in containing Chicago’s developing passing attack.

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Bears’ Struggles and Opportunities

The Bears enter Week 12 on the heels of a heartbreaking 31-26 loss to the Detroit Lions, where they squandered a late lead. Quarterback Justin Fields returned in that game after missing several weeks due to a thumb injury, showcasing his dual-threat ability with over 100 rushing yards. The Bears will lean on Fields’ playmaking, along with wide receiver D.J. Moore, to challenge the Vikings’ defense.

Chicago’s defense, while improved against the run, remains vulnerable in the secondary. Linebackers T.J. Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds have bolstered the middle of the field, but the pass rush must step up to disrupt Dobbs and limit explosive plays.

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Key Matchups

• Vikings WRs vs. Bears Secondary: If Jefferson returns, the Vikings’ passing attack could overwhelm Chicago’s young secondary.

• Justin Fields vs. Vikings Pass Rush: Containing Fields’ scrambling ability will be critical for Minnesota’s defense.

• Turnovers: The Vikings have been opportunistic in forcing turnovers, a potential game-changer against a Bears team prone to mistakes.

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Final Outlook

The Vikings are favored to extend their win streak and bolster their playoff push, but divisional games are always unpredictable. With Fields back, the Bears could make this a tighter contest than expected. Expect a hard-fought game under the prime-time lights.