The Buffalo Bills (0-1) travel to Soldier Field to face the Chicago Bears (0-0-1) in Week 2 of NFL preseason action. While James Cook’s return to practice adds a new dimension for Buffalo, Josh Allen’s likely absence creates an intriguing quarterback battle between Mitch Trubisky and Mike White. For Chicago, rookie sensation Caleb Williams waits in the wings after sitting out the preseason opener, making this matchup a critical evaluation opportunity for both teams.
Quick Picks:
- Best Bet: Bears -3 (-110) ★★★★☆
- Top Prop: Over 36.5 Total Points (-110) ★★★★☆
- Value Play: Austin Booker 0.5+ Sacks (+135) ★★★☆☆
Buffalo Bills vs Chicago Bears Betting Odds & Line Movement
| Market | Buffalo Bills | Chicago Bears |
|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | +145 | -170 |
| Point Spread | +3 (-110) | -3 (-110) |
| Total | Over 36.5 (-110) | Under 36.5 (-110) |
Opening Line: Bears -2.5, Total 36
Sharp Money Breakdown: Where the Smart Bets Are Going
Initial line movement favors the Bears, with the spread moving from -2.5 to -3 despite Buffalo showing well in their opener. This suggests sharp money believes we’ll see Caleb Williams in action, even if briefly. The total has also ticked up slightly, indicating professional bettors expect improved offensive execution from both sides. With James Cook returning to Bills practice this week, Buffalo’s run game should be more effective, but Chicago’s defensive front impressed against Miami and could neutralize that advantage.
Quarterback Matchup: Mitch Trubisky/Mike White vs Caleb Williams/Tyson Bagent – Who Has the Edge?
Buffalo Bills: Mitch Trubisky/Mike White
- Trubisky went 9-for-13 with 138 yards and a TD vs. Giants
- White completed 8-of-13 for 112 yards and 2 TDs in preseason opener
- Both QBs battling for backup role behind Josh Allen, who likely sits out
Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams/Tyson Bagent
- Williams expected to make preseason debut after sitting vs. Dolphins
- Bagent went 10-for-16 with 103 yards and 1 TD last week
- Case Keenum provides veteran stability (9-for-13, 83 yards, 1 TD vs. Miami)
QB Edge: Bears (assuming Williams plays)
Defense Comparison: Which Unit Will Step Up?
Chicago’s defense showed real flashes against Miami, particularly with rookie Austin Booker’s three-sack performance. The Bears’ defensive line controlled the line of scrimmage frequently, and Noah Sewell’s goal-line stand demonstrated the type of hard-nosed play Dennis Allen is demanding. Buffalo’s defense was similarly stout against the Giants, with Chase Lundt looking impressive in pass protection. The Bills’ linebacker depth looks significantly improved with Matt Milano back to full health, but Chicago’s defensive line depth gives them a slight edge for this preseason matchup.
Key Betting Trends & Team Stats You Should Know
- The Bills are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 preseason games
- Chicago tied Miami 24-24 in their preseason opener despite resting most starters
- Buffalo’s backup QBs combined for 3 passing TDs in preseason Week 1
- Bears rookie Austin Booker recorded 3 sacks in his preseason debut
- The Over is 5-2 in the Bills’ last 7 preseason games
James Cook’s Return Changes Bills’ Offensive Approach
James Cook’s return to Bills practice after holding in for a new contract brings stability to Buffalo’s offensive plans. Though he may see limited action (if any), his presence has elevated the entire running back room’s performance in practice. Cook’s return comes at a perfect time with the team reportedly agreeing to a 4-year, $48 million extension with $30 million guaranteed. This storyline will be worth monitoring to see if he gets any touches or if Buffalo continues to evaluate depth at the position through Ray Davis and Ty Johnson.
Soldier Field Factor: What to Expect on Game Day
Sunday night’s primetime slot (7 PM local time) at Soldier Field should create an energetic atmosphere as Chicago fans get their first glimpse of Caleb Williams in a Bears uniform. The Bears are coming off a joint practice with Buffalo on Friday, giving both teams familiarity with each other’s schemes. The weather forecast calls for clear skies and temperatures in the mid-70s, providing ideal conditions for both offenses to operate efficiently. Look for Chicago’s coaching staff to call a balanced attack that showcases Williams’ arm talent while continuing to evaluate their running back and receiver depth.
Expert Prediction & Best Bets for Bills vs Bears
Primary Play: Bears -3 (-110)
This pick comes down to one factor: Caleb Williams. After sitting out the preseason opener, the franchise quarterback should see his first NFL action Sunday night, even if just for a series or two. The energy in Soldier Field will be electric, and Ben Johnson will have his offensive starters prepared to make a statement. Buffalo’s backup QB battle might produce decent numbers, but Chicago’s defensive front should generate enough pressure to limit their effectiveness. The Bears looked disciplined in their opener, and that should continue here with Williams at the controls.
Strong Value Play: Austin Booker 0.5+ Sacks (+135)
Booker was the star of Chicago’s preseason opener with three sacks against Miami, showing elite burst off the edge. Buffalo’s offensive line depth is questionable, and the Bills allowed several pressures against the Giants. With Booker likely to play significant snaps again, the rookie has excellent value to register at least half a sack in consecutive games. His first-step quickness should create problems for Buffalo’s second and third-string tackles.
Worth Considering: Over 36.5 Total Points (-110)
Both teams showcased efficient offensive execution in their preseason openers. Buffalo scored 25 points against the Giants, while Chicago put up 24 against Miami. The Bears’ offense should be even more explosive with Williams under center, even briefly. Both teams have quarterback depth with something to prove, and the skill position battles on both sides feature players looking to make explosive plays to secure roster spots. This has all the makings of a back-and-forth affair that easily clears the total.
Top Player Props for Bills vs Bears
| Player | Prop | Odds | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caleb Williams | Over 49.5 Passing Yards | -110 | ★★★★☆ |
| Austin Booker | 0.5+ Sacks | +135 | ★★★★☆ |
| Ray Davis | Over 28.5 Rushing Yards | -115 | ★★★☆☆ |
| KJ Hamler | Over 24.5 Receiving Yards | -110 | ★★★☆☆ |
| Luther Burden III | Anytime TD Scorer | +275 | ★★★☆☆ |
Final Thoughts: Chicago’s Star Power Outshines Buffalo’s Depth
While Buffalo has impressive quarterback depth battling for the QB2 role, Chicago’s combination of Caleb Williams’ likely debut and defensive playmakers like Austin Booker gives them the edge. The Bears’ joint practice with Buffalo on Friday should provide their coaching staff with valuable insights to exploit in Sunday’s matchup. Look for Chicago to make a statement in front of their home crowd as Ben Johnson shows flashes of his offensive creativity with Williams at the controls, even if just for limited action.
Score Prediction: Bears 23, Bills 17
Note: Our projections about who’s playing in preseason are based on the latest updates from beat reporters, coaches, and players. Sometimes, that info changes at the last minute or doesn’t pan out on game day. If you can’t personally confirm who’s suiting up, we recommend keeping your action light—think “beer money” bets only.
