Overview
- Edge rusher Brian Burns, the NFL sack leader, publicly challenged teammates to stiffen against the run, saying it is time to "nut up or shut up."
- New York enters Chicago with a league-worst 5.5 yards allowed per carry and about 150 rushing yards surrendered per game during a three-game skid at 2-7.
- The Bears lean heavily on the rush after posting 283 yards against the Bengals, averaging 29.4 attempts, 4.9 yards per carry and 144.4 yards per game.
- Brian Daboll referenced possible defensive changes, and players said run-fit adjustments have been a point of emphasis in meetings this week.
- Kicker Graham Gano missed Wednesday’s practice with a neck injury as the team worked out Jude McAtamney and Younghoe Koo, with a lengthy injury list and the loss of LB Micah McFadden compounding personnel concerns.