2021 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 9

Chicago Bears (3-5) at Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3)

Monday, November 8, 8:15PM ET

Another week has gone by, and I still don’t have much confidence in this Chicago Bears offense. Sure, the defense is holding its own this season, but Justin Fields hasn’t elevated this group enough to make them a consistent threat to find the end zone.

As for the Pittsburgh Steelers, their offense has been slightly more reliable in 2021. It started off slow but has gained momentum down the stretch as Najee Harris and Diontae Johnson continue to shine. Even against Chicago’s solid defense, the Steelers should be able to strike paydirt at least a couple of times.

The same can’t necessarily be said for the Bears against Pittsburgh’s elite defense. All season long, the Steelers have done a great job of overwhelming opposing offenses with their ability to pressure the passer and shut down ground games. Against Fields and Co., I’d imagine we’ll see more of the same.

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The Bears keep it close early, but a defensive touchdown by the Steelers turns the tide and allows them to run away with this one. Suddenly, Pittsburgh is a team worth taking seriously in the AFC playoff race.

Prediction: Steelers win 28-20 | Spread: Steelers (-6.5)