7 reasons why the Vikings will beat the Bears in Week 4

(Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images) Dalvin Cook
(Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images) Dalvin Cook
7 of 8
(Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Akiem Hicks
(Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Akiem Hicks

Bears may be without a top defender

One of Chicago’s top priorities on Sunday will be to figure out a way to prevent the Vikings’ rushing attack from becoming a large factor. In their efforts to try and stop Minnesota’s run game this week, Chicago may have to do it without the help of one of their top defensive linemen.

On Monday, Chicago defensive tackle Akiem Hicks injured his knee during the team’s win over the Redskins. Due to the injury, Hicks did not participate in any of the Bears’ practices this week and he’s listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the Vikings.

His status for the contest might have been unintentionally revealed on Saturday when Chicago added defensive lineman Jonathan Harris to their active roster.

The Bears’ defense was one of the best at stopping the run a season ago and they’ve done pretty well at stopping their opponents’ rushing attacks this year also. Hicks has played a big part in their ability to do this and without him on Sunday, Minnesota and Dalvin Cook could be able to run away with a win.

Schedule