Falcons Face Bears’ Top-Ranked Rushing Attack

Atlanta hosts Chicago in a Week 6 matchup shaped by uncertainty over Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, who is working back from a hamstring injury and could return after missing three games. Chicago may also be without defensive end Montez Sweat, suspended for performance-enhancing drug use, and could be short-handed up front after an injury to Dayo Odeyingbo. Despite a poor defensive showing against Green Bay, the Bears had ranked among the league’s better defenses, while their rushing attack had been especially productive and could challenge Atlanta regardless of who starts at quarterback. The Falcons, coming off a loss in which Baltimore ran for 208 yards, will need to shore up their run defense and limit Chicago’s ground game. One forecast sees Atlanta pulling an upset by taking an early lead, leaning on Bijan Robinson and using play-action passes, though Michael Penix Jr.’s rib injury could complicate that approach.