Chicago Bears vs. Indianapolis Colts 9/22/24 – With Week 3 in the NFL starting, the Chicago Bears (1-1) take on the struggling Indianapolis Colts (0-2) in the Lucas Oil Stadium. This game is crucial this early in the season for both teams, with the former trying to take advantage of their balanced record while the latter trying to stop the bleeding and prevent an early crisis. Both teams are warmly prepared in hopes of this tussle, which will surely be a highly entertaining battle for both teams and the punters. Look out for this game as a significant part of NFL Week 3 free prediction which can help you change your staking plan.
Chicago Bears vs. Indianapolis Colts 9/22/24
| When: | Sunday, September 22, 2024, at 1:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Lucas Oil Stadium |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bears | +1 (-120) | 46.5 over (-120) | +116 |  |
| Colts | -1 (-120) | 46.5 under (-120) | -136 | |
| ||||
Big Bill's been ballin' 😤
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) September 19, 2024
The Bears will be the slight underdogs going into the game with a spread of +1 at 120, whereas the Colts are not enjoying a better start with one more point line than them at -1. The two have contrasted quite well when it comes to totals with the Bears having most of their games ending under, while the Colts do their best to ensure high-scoring games which should excite punters looking towards the over-under line of 46.5.
Caleb Williams QB vs. Anthony Richardson QB
Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears had a very moderate season opener, as he only recorded a passer rating of 53 despite completing 56.1% of his passes for 267 yards but registering zero passes for touchdowns and two interceptions. His challenge will be to muster a rhythm against a Colts defense that has been soft but opportunistic at the same time. To replay the season’s story for Williams, it is necessary to lower the sacks and make his throws count significantly.
Anthony Richardson, on the opposing team, the Indianapolis Colts, gives a slight positive. Richardson has completed 49.1% of his passes for 416 yards and three touchdowns with four interceptions, which essentially says more of an order type rather than control. Extending plays with his powerful arm can backfire against the Bears’ defense who would want to take advantage of his inexperience and propensity to throw interceptions.
Ground and Air Assault: Chicago’s Tactical Moves
For Chicago, the offensive strategy leans heavily on their ground game and short passing. Running back D’Andre Swift, although only averaging 2 yards per carry, and receiver DJ Moore, with 89 receiving yards over two games, need to find more effective ways to break through Indianapolis’ defense. Moore’s ability to turn short receptions into longer gains could be key, especially with Williams under pressure and the Colts’ defense focusing on stifling the run.
Indianapolis’ Rushing and Receiving Threats
Jonathan Taylor stands out as a beacon for the Colts, averaging 5.4 yards per carry and maintaining a consistent threat in the backfield. His performance is crucial to balancing their offensive attack and relieving some pressure off Richardson. Receiver Alec Pierce has been a revelation, turning 8 receptions into 181 yards and scoring twice. His explosive playmaking ability will be vital in stretching the Bears’ defense, which has been vulnerable to deep threats.
Trends
Chicago Bears Betting Trends
Chicago are 6-2-1 ATS in their last 9 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Chicago’s last 12 games.
Chicago are 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games against Indianapolis.
Chicago are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games against Indianapolis.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Chicago’s last 7 games on the road.
Indianapolis Colts Betting Trends
Indianapolis are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Indianapolis’ last 9 games.
Indianapolis are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Indianapolis’ last 7 games at home.
Indianapolis are 2-9 SU in their last 11 games against an opponent in the National Football Conference conference.
Chicago Bears vs. Indianapolis Colts Betting Prediction
Given the trends and performances, this game might be more contested than the odds suggest. The Bears’ conservative, ground-and-pound style could very well be the square peg that ruins the Colts’ more free-flowing game. It would perhaps make sense to bet on the Bears to cover the spread and even win, given the poor start by the colts that has exposed their defense.
To consider the contrasting styles and trends, it may also be worth looking at the under before the lines move, as walnut brown Chicago may well be able to eat the clock up and make it a low-scoring game. Nonetheless, it would be equally easy to account for a scoring spree for each team due to their defensive lapses. For the best experience and favorable odds, do not hesitate to bet on premier online betting sites.
Score Prediction: Bears 24, Colts 21.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: September 19, 2024
Last updated: March 25, 2025