Chicago Bears vs. Washington Commanders GAMEDAY Preview: Losing Streak Snapped?

Will Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell stay sharp tonight against the Chicago Bears?

The Washington Commanders host the winless Chicago Bears tonight at FedEx Field.

The quick turnaround features two teams in need of a win after both giving up leads in Week 4. 

The Commanders had chances to hand NFC East foe Philadelphia Eagles their first loss of the season ... but Washington just couldn't deliver that final blow, ultimately losing 34-31 in overtime. Meanwhile, the Bears blew a lead to the Denver Broncos, suffering a 31-28 loss. 

Quarterback Sam Howell silenced some of his critics, finishing 29-of-41 for 290 yards, while also throwing a clutch touchdown that sent the game to overtime. Poised in the pocket, Howell did not commit any turnovers. 

The Commanders offense will have a chance to build on its strong showing against the lowly Bears. Howell looks to stay sharp and continue his chemistry with Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson.

Washington's defense looks to get after Bears quarterback Justin Fields, who was recently in the news for his comments about his coaching staff. Fields is fresh off throwing four touchdowns in his first 300+ yard performance of his career. 

Entering Week 5, Washington is third in the NFC East division behind the 3-1 Dallas Cowboys and 4-0 Philadelphia Eagles.

Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell / Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

FLASHBACK: These two teams faced off last season on Thursday Night Football in Chicago. The Commanders left Chicago with a win with much thanks to cornerback Benjamin St-Juste's clutch play in the final minute.

RECORDS: Washington Commanders (2-2) vs. Chicago Bears (0-4)

ODDS: Washington is a 7-point favorite vs. the Bears.

GAME TIME: Thursday, October 5th, 2023 at 8:15 p.m. ET

LOCATION: FedEx Field - North Englewood, MD

TV/RADIO: Prime Video, BIG 100.3 FM

THE FINAL WORD: Howell doesn't believe in 'moral victories':

"We will go back this week on a short week, playing on Thursday night, and we are excited for that opportunity. Definitely, I don’t believe in moral victories or anything like that. We lost the game, and I feel like we should have won.”

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