Chicago Bears dealt daunting Todd Bowles prediction before Week 9 clash

On a three-game win streak, the Chicago Bears have momentum on their side entering Week 9. But the Tampa Bay Buccaneers won’t be a pushover.

On paper, the Buccaneers are just 3-5. But they’re on a two-game win streak of their own. Furthermore, they just beat the Atlanta Falcons 16-0 despite quarterback Baker Mayfield not completing a pass.

Tampa Bay’s run game ranks best in the NFL – one spot above Chicago – averaging 168.6 yards per game. Furthermore, the Buccaneers rank third in total defense, allowing 285.9 yards per game. The Bears won’t be taking their Sunday Night Football matchup lightly.

Playing at home, Chicago are the favorites entering the battle. But not everyone is convinced the Bears will come out victorious.

Donte Whitner doubting Chicago Bears

The Bears, and particularly Caleb Williams, have still gotten plenty of criticism despite their current 6-2. This time around, Donte Whitner of ESPN argued that facing off against Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles will be a rude awakening, via Clay Harbor of the Chicago Sports Network.

“I think that this Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense and Todd Bowles will serve Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears offense a little slice of humble pie, topped with a little bit of vanilla ice cream” Whitner said. “Caleb Williams has been getting a lot of praise, rightfully so. But Todd Bowles hears it all.”

“He’s one of those coordinators that take pride in humbling a quarterback that everybody is on board with,” he continued. “You’re going to see unorthodox disguised coverages. A bunch of different blitzes. Everybody is crowning Caleb Williams. This Sunday, we’re going to make him earn that crown.”

“I think Todd Bowles will serve Caleb Williams and the Bears offense a slice of humble pie.” #DaBears #Bears #ChicagoBears pic.twitter.com/jFmV0yf3I9

— Clay Harbor (@clayharbs82) November 6, 2026

In the Buccaneers’ 16-0 victory over the Falcons, Tampa Bay forced four interceptions. Atlanta quarterback completed just eight-of-24 passes for 125 scoreless yards. Even with Bijan Robinson, the Falcons failed to break 100 rushing yards.

The Bears will have their bye week after Sunday Night Football. They’re looking to carry their momentum into the break. But to do so Bowles and the Buccaneers stand in their way.

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