The Chicago Bears are back, determined to bounce back from a tough week. After a difficult game against the Washington Commanders, they’ve been under heavy criticism and gone through some serious self-reflection. But they don't have much time to dwell on it as they’re off to the desert, preparing to clash with the Arizona Cardinals. This matchup offers the Bears a fresh chance to shake off their 18-15 loss to Washington and keep pushing forward in the heated NFC North race.
Currently sitting at 4-3, the Bears need a win to keep up in the division. On the other side, the Cardinals, with a 4-4 record, are riding some momentum after winning three of their last four games. Their recent success includes two last-second thrillers against AFC teams, so the Bears have a big challenge ahead. Here’s a breakdown of the five Arizona Cardinals players to keep an eye on in this exciting Sunday showdown. Let’s dive into what each player brings to the table and why the Bears will have their hands full.
1. Kyler Murray – The Pro-Bowl-Caliber Quarterback Making a Comeback
First up is Cardinals’ quarterback Kyler Murray, who’s been a powerhouse since returning from an ACL injury. Murray’s journey back has been nothing short of impressive; he’s returned to the level of play he showed in 2020, operating at nearly Pro Bowl caliber. With 11 touchdown passes, just three interceptions, and a solid 98 passer rating—his second-best rating yet—he’s showing off his skill as both a thrower and a playmaker.
Murray’s true strength, however, lies in his agility. His ability to escape the pocket, extend plays with his legs, and scramble is something that gives defenses nightmares. The Bears are no strangers to dealing with mobile quarterbacks, as they faced Jayden Daniels from the Commanders just last week. But Murray is a different level of threat, and if he gets comfortable, he’ll be hard to contain. His chemistry with up-and-coming talents like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride adds another layer to his offensive arsenal, making him even harder to defend.
2. James Conner – The Veteran Powerhouse in the Backfield
If there’s one consistent element in Arizona’s offense, it’s James Conner, the running back who’s been bulldozing his way through defenses. Conner’s been in the league since 2017, and he’s proving he still has plenty of gas in the tank. His ability to dominate at State Farm Stadium is impressive, averaging 5.17 yards per carry at home—almost two full yards more than his average on the road. Conner just seems to shine when he’s playing in front of Arizona fans.
This week, Conner’s physicality could become a serious problem for the Bears’ run defense. The Bears allowed a season-high 168 rushing yards to the Commanders just last week, and now they may face the Cardinals without Montez Sweat, their Pro Bowl defensive end. This absence could create opportunities for Conner to make some big plays, especially with the home-field advantage on his side. If the Bears aren’t prepared to plug the gaps, Conner might have another standout game.
3. Marvin Harrison Jr. – The Rookie Wide Receiver Making an Impact
Chicago fans may remember the anticipation for Marvin Harrison Jr. before the 2024 NFL Draft. Bears supporters were hopeful they might land him, but ultimately, they drafted Caleb Williams with the No. 1 pick, while Harrison went to the Cardinals at No. 4 overall. Despite some inconsistency, Harrison has shown flashes of his immense talent, particularly in key moments. He has posted 26 receptions for 411 yards and five touchdowns so far, with two 100-yard games under his belt.
Harrison’s potential to take over a game is undeniable, yet he’s had a few quieter outings too, with less than 50 yards in five games. Whether he brings his A-game against the Bears will be key. Facing a banged-up Chicago secondary, this could be his opportunity to shine and remind the Bears of what could have been. If Harrison connects with Murray in this game, the Bears’ secondary will have to step up to keep him contained.
4. Paris Johnson Jr. – The Anchor on Arizona’s Offensive Line
Another player the Bears may have considered drafting is Paris Johnson Jr., the Cardinals’ offensive tackle, who went to Arizona in 2023 out of Ohio State. Johnson was drafted to protect the quarterback, and he’s been a crucial part of the Cardinals’ offensive line, which has seen him transition smoothly from right tackle to left tackle in his second year.
This season, Johnson’s performance has been impressive; his Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade is about 20 points higher than his rookie season, now sitting at 80. Arizona’s offensive line hasn’t allowed a single sack in three games straight, and Johnson is a huge reason why. Bears pass-rushers like Darrell Taylor, Austin Booker, and Jacob Martin will have their work cut out for them as they try to penetrate this wall. Johnson’s development has made him a stronghold on the line, and it’ll be a battle to see if Chicago’s defense can find a way to break through.
5. Budda Baker – The Defensive Veteran and Playmaker
Although the Cardinals’ defense has been weakened by injuries and roster changes, one name still commands respect: Budda Baker. As one of Arizona’s veteran leaders, Baker might not be the coverage powerhouse he once was, but his downfield tackling and ability to make plays at the line of scrimmage make him a constant threat. His 79 total tackles this season, including four tackles for loss, speak volumes about his impact on the field.
Baker’s recent 12-tackle performance against the Dolphins was another reminder of his presence and skill. He’ll be looking to disrupt the Bears’ offense, especially as they rely on D'Andre Swift in the running game and put their young quarterback Caleb Williams in position to succeed. The Bears would be wise to keep an eye on Baker, as he’ll likely be coming after the run game and might even target Williams with some pressure in the pocket. Sunday’s matchup is bound to be a test of wills as Baker brings his experience and tenacity against Chicago’s offense.
Login