Bears vs Eagles Black Friday 2025 Preview: Odds, Predictions, Injuries, and Expert Breakdown

Bears vs Eagles Black Friday 2025 Preview: Odds, Predictions, Injuries, and Expert Breakdown

The Chicago Bears (8-3) visit the Philadelphia Eagles (8-3) on Black Friday in a pivotal Week 13 showdown that features two division leaders battling atop the NFC playoff picture. Both teams have identical records and are riding momentum into this key late-season matchup at Lincoln Financial Field. The game’s outcome may well shape the race for playoff positioning, making it a must-watch contest for fans and bettors alike.

Teams and Season Context

The Eagles come into the game as the reigning Super Bowl champions and have faced pressure this season to maintain their elite status. Philadelphia started strong but has recently encountered offensive struggles highlighted by a costly blown 21-point lead in the last game against their rival Dallas Cowboys. Superstar wide receiver A.J. Brown has voiced frustration over his role in the offense, adding an element of internal tension. Nonetheless, the Eagles have a potent rushing attack led by Saquon Barkley and a balanced offense steered by quarterback Jalen Hurts, who has evolved into a more confident pocket passer this season.

The Bears, meanwhile, are enjoying a breakout year under first-year head coach Ben Johnson. Chicago has developed into an offensive juggernaut, driven by dynamic quarterback Caleb Williams. Williams combines strong pocket passing with elite scrambling ability and speed, adding a multi-dimensional threat for opposing defenses. The Bears have won four straight games, all by slim margins of five points or less, demonstrating resilience and clutch performance. Despite injury setbacks, particularly on defense, the Bears have found ways to compete and remain in first place in the NFC North.

Injury Reports and Impact

Injuries loom large for both sides, potentially shaping the flow of the game. The Bears have been decimated with injuries at key linebacker positions. Tremaine Edmunds, who leads the Bears with 89 tackles and multiple interceptions, was placed on injured reserve due to a groin injury and will miss this game. Noah Sewell and T.J. Edwards also remain questionable or sidelined. Defensive backs Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon could return, which would provide a boost against the Eagles’ lethal receiving duo.

Philadelphia’s injury issues are notable in their secondary. Safety Andrew Mukuba is officially ruled out with a fractured ankle needing surgery. Reed Blankenship, the starting safety who ranks fifth on the team in tackles, is questionable with a thigh injury. Cornerback Adoree' Jackson is in concussion protocol, and wide receiver Devonta Smith is also questionable due to a shoulder/chest issue. Offensive lineman Lane Johnson is listed as questionable with a foot injury but remains an important player for protecting Hurts and establishing the run game.

Key Matchups and Tactical Angles

The Bears’ offense is expected to prioritize their passing game to exploit Philadelphia’s secondary injuries. Caleb Williams’ ability to scramble adds a critical dimension that the Eagles defense must prepare for. Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has praised Ben Johnson's offense as a great scheme, acknowledging the efficient blend of run and pass and the difficulty in containing Williams as both a passer and runner. This dual-threat creates challenges in coverage assignments and run fits.

The Eagles enter the game seeking redemption and a return to form after their recent collapse. Saquon Barkley remains a cornerstone of their offense and presents a significant challenge to a Bears defense that has allowed more than 133 rushing yards per game this season. Philadelphia’s offensive line is tasked with opening holes for Barkley while giving Hurts time to operate a more balanced offense that features expanded roles for receivers Brown and Smith, especially on deep routes to stretch the Bears’ secondary.

Defensively, both teams have strengths in the trenches but vulnerabilities in their secondary groups. The Eagles are a top-ranked defense in points allowed per game (20.5), yet the Bears have the offensive firepower to test that unit. Expect a physical contest in the front seven, with both lines playing key roles in determining time of possession and controlling the pace.

Betting Odds and Predictions

The betting lines favor the Eagles by 7 points with an over/under total of 44.5 points. Chicago’s recent form and balanced offensive attack make them an enticing choice against the spread, as the game is projected to be a close, high-stakes battle that could be decided in the final minutes.

The Bears are expected to rely on their passing efficiency and late-game resilience. Caleb Williams’ ability to sustain drives and make clutch plays will be crucial. On the other hand, the Eagles’ home field advantage and playoff experience could tip the balance, with Jalen Hurts orchestrating a balanced attack featuring Barkley’s rushing and Brown’s receiving to outpace Chicago’s defense.

A prediction leans toward a Philadelphia win, but the margin may be tight, with Chicago poised to cover the spread. This game could culminate in an exhilarating finish featuring strategic adjustments, key turnovers, and big plays downfield.

Fan and Broadcast Info

This Black Friday game will be televised locally on FOX 29 and streamed nationally on Prime Video with announcers Al Michaels and Kirk Herbstreit. Fans are encouraged to wear black for a stadium blackout effect as the Eagles sport their all-black uniforms.

The Bears vs. Eagles matchup is a compelling contest loaded with playoff implications, star power, and tactical intrigue. Philadelphia aims to bounce back from recent adversity, while Chicago seeks to continue their surge and prove their legitimacy as contenders. With injuries adding uncertainty and key matchups shaping outcomes, this game embodies the intensity and drama of late-season NFL football. Fans can expect a thrilling, hard-fought game that captures the spirit of rivalry and competition on a national holiday stage.