Game Details:
- Matchup: Chicago Bears at Washington Commanders
- Date: Thursday, October 13
- Time: 8:16 PM EST
- Spread: Commanders -5.5
- Total (Over/Under): 49.5
Game Preview
Thursday Night Football heads to the nation’s capital for a cross-conference clash as the Chicago Bears visit the Washington Commanders. The Commanders open as 5.5-point home favorites in a game with a high-flying total of 49.5, suggesting oddsmakers expect plenty of offensive fireworks.
The Commanders will look to leverage their home-field advantage on a short week. Their success hinges on the performance of their offense, led by quarterback Jayden Daniels. Keeping Daniels upright and healthy will be paramount; past injury reports from this season have shown he is not immune to taking hits that can cause him to miss practice time. The availability of key defensive linemen like Daron Payne, who has also appeared on injury reports, will be critical in disrupting the Bears’ offensive rhythm. With weapons like running back Austin Ekeler in the backfield, Washington has the pieces to control the clock and put up points, but their health will be a major storyline to watch heading into kickoff.
For the visiting Chicago Bears, this prime-time road test is a significant challenge. To cover the spread, or pull off the upset, they will need a clean and efficient performance from their offense. In the past, the Bears’ defense has been hampered by injuries, particularly in the secondary with key cornerbacks like Kyler Gordon and Jaylon Johnson missing time. A depleted secondary could struggle against the Commanders’ receiving corps. Chicago’s front seven, potentially led by linebacker T.J. Edwards, must generate pressure on Daniels to take the heat off their defensive backs and prevent the game from turning into a shootout.
Prediction
This matchup features two teams whose success is heavily tied to the health of their key players on both sides of the ball. The 5.5-point spread in favor of the home team on a short week feels appropriate. Thursday night games often favor the home squad, which avoids travel and can stick to a more normal routine.
The high total of 49.5 points is the most intriguing aspect of this game. It indicates that Vegas expects a high-scoring affair, which could be attributed to the offensive talent or potential defensive vulnerabilities. Given that both teams have seen important defensive players on past injury reports, from Washington’s Daron Payne to Chicago’s secondary, big plays could be on the menu.
The Pick: Commanders -5.5. Washington has the advantage of playing at home on a short week. If Jayden Daniels can effectively lead the offense, they should be able to win by at least a touchdown against a Bears team that may struggle to keep pace on the road.
Over/Under Pick: Over 49.5. Both teams have shown vulnerabilities on defense. The high total is there for a reason, and in a prime-time game where both offenses will be looking to make a statement, expect enough scoring to push this game over the total.
Sources:
Injury Report | The Official Website of the Chicago Bears
Final Vikings at Bears Injury Report for Week 1 of 2025
Chicago Bears Injury Status – ESPN
CHICAGO BEARS INJURY REPORT : r/detroitlions
Bears injury report: T.J. Edwards doubtful for Week 1 game vs …
#Packers #Bears injury report
Chicago Bears Injury Report and Status 2025-26 – CBS Sports
Bears injury report: Kyler Gordon, T.J. Edwards out vs. Cowboys …
Chicago Bears Injury Report Ahead of Week 3 – On Tap Sports Net
Vikings vs. Bears injury report