The total would be flirting with 50 under normal circumstances. As it is, the opening number was 46. Developments have driven it down, though perhaps not far enough. The Bears will send out QB Nathan Peterman in lieu of the injured Justin Fields, whose running ability fuels the offense. Peterman last started in 2018 and must overcome an unproductive set of running backs. Chicago has managed just 72 points in the past five weeks. The Vikings start a backup at right tackle and a third-stringer at center because of injuries. Minnesota coach Kevin O'Connell has hinted at pulling some starters well into the game, which could impair the offense. Chicago might do so as well to "contend" for the No. 1 draft pick with a defeat.

I am literally laughing as I type this, but the Bears are starting Nathan Peterman at QB. And I am darn happy as a Chicago fan to keep Justin Fields healthy and earn at worst the No. 2 overall pick in this year's draft. The Vikings are now -8 and that seems a lock ... except might they pull starters early? Not a ton to play for with the team essentially locked into the NFC's No. 3 seed. Thus, I'll simply play under the total as the Bears can't possibly score much with Nate Pete under center even as shaky as Minnesota's defense can be. Chicago's defense is wretched but the Vikings as noted should put in the JV offense fairly early. There also could be snow showers Sunday.