Plus, a look at how the Bears can get their tight ends involved in the passing game and what they need to do against some very good Cowboys pass-catchers.

What to Watch For: Bears Defense Can’t Turn Itself Around vs. Cowboys Unless They Ignite Pass Rush

As the Chicago Bears prepare to face the Dallas Cowboys, the focus is squarely on one critical area: the pass rush. Without a consistent ability to pressure the quarterback, the Bears’ defense will struggle to contain a high-powered Cowboys offense led by Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Tony Pollard.

Chicago’s defense has underwhelmed this season, ranking near the bottom of the league in sacks and quarterback pressures. Through the first few games, they’ve failed to generate disruption up front, allowing quarterbacks too much time to operate. That lack of pressure has exposed a vulnerable secondary, forcing them to cover receivers longer and opening up big-play opportunities.

The Cowboys, meanwhile, boast one of the more balanced and dangerous offenses in the league. Dak Prescott has shown poise in the pocket and efficiency in his reads, particularly when protected well. If the Bears allow him time to throw, he’ll pick apart their defense with precision. CeeDee Lamb’s route running, combined with Brandin Cooks’ speed and tight end Jake Ferguson’s reliability, make Dallas a difficult team to defend if the quarterback is unbothered in the pocket.

This is why the Bears’ front seven needs to step up—and fast. The addition of Montez Sweat last season was supposed to bolster the pass rush, but so far, the results haven’t been consistent. Sweat has flashed his potential, but without help from the interior or the opposite edge, teams are double-teaming him and neutralizing his impact.

Additionally, the Bears’ blitz packages have lacked creativity. Defensive coordinator Alan Williams will need to dial up more pressure looks—delayed blitzes, stunts, and zone dogs—to create confusion and force quick decisions from Prescott. Dallas’ offensive line, while talented, isn’t invincible, especially with injuries creeping in. The Bears have to capitalize on any weaknesses.

It’s not just about sacks—though they desperately need more of those—it’s about disrupting timing. Pressures, hits, and forcing Prescott off his spot can change the rhythm of Dallas’ offense and give Chicago’s defensive backs a chance to make plays. Takeaways are born from chaos in the backfield, and right now, the Bears aren’t creating nearly enough of it.

The bottom line is this: the Bears can’t afford to play soft or passive against a playoff-caliber team like the Cowboys. If the defensive line fails to get home, this game could turn into a shootout the Bears aren’t equipped to win. Justin Fields and the offense have improved, but asking them to keep up with Dallas in a high-scoring affair is a risky proposition.

If Chicago wants to make a statement and pull off an upset, it starts in the trenches. The Bears’ pass rush must ignite—pressure Prescott, collapse the pocket, and turn defense into opportunity. Otherwise, expect another long afternoon and more questions about the future of this defensive unit.