As the Chicago Bears (5-9) set their sights on the Arizona Cardinals (3-11) this Christmas Eve, the stage is set for redemption after a tough road loss to the Browns.

Optimism is running high with Justin Fields hitting his stride and a defense gaining steam. The oddsmakers are leaning towards Chicago, too, setting the Bears up as the team to beat. This matchup isn’t just about ending on a high note before Christmas; it’s about showcasing the Bears’ continued growth, particularly on defense and the ongoing development of their quarterback.

Here’s why we’re optimistic about Chicago in Week 16:

1. Sweat Equity: Montez Bringing the Heat

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – DECEMBER 10: Montez Sweat #98 of the Chicago Bears reacts during the second half in the game against the Detroit Lions at Soldier Field on December 10, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)

The Bears defense has seen a remarkable upswing with edge rusher Montez Sweat making a significant impact since his arrival. This improved pass rush could be the key to disrupting Kyler Murray and the Cardinals offense, forcing them to depend on their run game. In this area, the Bears excel with one of the league’s best-run defenses.

Despite their challenges against the pass, Chicago’s developed a knack for interceptions, embodying the resilient “bend but don’t break” theme of Coach Eberflus’ Tampa 2 strategy. Suppose the Bears can dominate in stopping the run, pressuring the quarterback, and creating turnovers. In that case, they will be well-positioned for an easy victory.

2. Foreman, Johnson, Herbert and Fields: Attorneys at Rush

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – DECEMBER 10: D’Onta Foreman #21 of the Chicago Bears jumps over Cameron Sutton #1 of the Detroit Lions during the second half at Soldier Field on December 10, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)

Offensively, the Bears excel at running the ball. The combo of D’Onta Foreman, Roschon Johnson, Khalil Herbert, and Justin Fields has been racking up an average of 134.4 yards per game. They’re set to face an Arizona defense struggling to contain the run, giving up an average of 140 yards per game. If Chicago can establish the run early, they can control the clock, sidelining Murray and the Cardinals’ offense and tilting the odds in their favor.

3. Hot Hand: Justin Fields Recent Performance

CLEVELAND, OHIO – DECEMBER 17: Justin Fields #1 of the Chicago Bears throws a pass for a touchdown during the second quarter of a game against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium on December 17, 2023 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images)

Quarterback Justin Fields is coming into his own, showcasing his versatility and improved accuracy — completing 62% of his passes and adding four touchdowns over his last four games. He continues to be a spark plug for the offense, able to shift field position on a single play. It should make for a festive victory if he can maintain this level of play and improve his ball security in the crunch time of late-game drives.

CLEVELAND, OHIO – DECEMBER 17: Cole Kmet #85 of the Chicago Bears celebrates a touchdown during the second quarter of a game against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium on December 17, 2023 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

With Soldier Field as the backdrop, the Bears can improve their home record and capitalize on an upward trend. The Cardinals, on the rise themselves, won’t make it easy. But if the Bears can execute when it matters most, this Sunday will be about more than just a win; it will be a testament to their development and a sign of their ability to win games in the fourth quarter.