Cowboys vs Bears Keys to Victory

The Dallas Cowboys head to Soldier Field to take on an injury-riddled Chicago Bears squad. With the Bears reeling and Dallas showing balance on offense, this is a prime opportunity for the Cowboys to assert themselves. Here are updated, realistic keys for victory in this matchup.

Current Context & Stakes

• The Bears are 0-2, and their defense has been torched over the last 5 quarters for 73 points and 694 yards allowed. Blogging The Boys

• Chicago has suffered major losses in the secondary: Jaylon Johnson is out indefinitely with a groin injury (among others), and Kyler Gordon is hampered. SI+3Reuters+3Windy City Gridiron+3

• The Cowboys’ defense has added veteran Jadeveon Clowney to help bolster their pass rush and edge play. Blogging The Boys+1

• On offense, Javonte Williams is off to a strong start—he’s among league leaders in some rushing metrics and looks like he can exploit the Bears’ weak run defense. Blogging The Boys+2SI+2

5 Keys for Cowboys’ Victory

1. Lean on the Run Game Early and OftenWith Chicago near the bottom of the league in stopping the run, Dallas should use Williams to set the tone. Establishing the ground game opens up play-action and keeps the Bears’ defense off-balance. If Williams can break off big gains or sustain tough yards, it’ll force Chicago to commit more defenders to the box, which helps the passing game. SI+2Blogging The Boys+2

2. Exploit the Injured Secondary Through the AirWith key corners out (Jaylon Johnson, Kyler Gordon) and expected coverage weaknesses, the Cowboys should attack via multiple receiving options. CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, and tight ends (like Jake Ferguson) should see favorable matchups. Deep shots, seam routes, and exploiting mismatches should be in the game plan. SI+2Inside The Star+2

3. Protect Dak Prescott & Maximize Time in the PocketWhile the Bears’ pass rush hasn’t been dominant (especially with injuries up front and in the secondary), keeping Dak clean and comfortable will be key. Good pass protection gives him more time to look off safeties and find open receivers, especially in third down or red zone situations. The Cowboys need to avoid negative plays and sacks that swing momentum. SI+2Yahoo Sports+2

4. Bring Pressure, Without Over-PursuitThe Bears’ quarterbacks (and their offense overall) are showing flashes—Rome Odunze and Caleb Williams have been dangerous. Dallas needs to disrupt Chicago’s comfort but avoid giving up big plays through the air. Jadeveon Clowney’s arrival helps; the Cowboys should mix pressure schemes (stunts, twists, occasional blitzes) to force mistakes, hurry throws, or turnovers—but also maintain discipline in coverage. SI+2Blogging The Boys+2

5. Convert in the Red Zone & Avoid Self-Inflicted ErrorsPoints matter, especially when defenses are compromised. Dallas needs to finish drives with touchdowns—not field goals. Turnovers, penalties (especially in critical moments), and mental lapses have to be minimized. Efficiency here can separate a winner from a close loss. Given the Bears’ struggles, Dallas has a favorable opportunity—but they must capitalize. Inside The Star+1

Prediction & Final Thought

If Dallas executes the above well, they should be able to put up enough points to stay ahead. The Bears pose danger via their young offense, particularly if they get momentum—but given the state of their defense, the Cowboys have more favorable matchups across the board.

Likely outcome: Cowboys win by a small margin, something like 30-26 or 31-27. High scoring, but Dallas should come out on top.