The Week 8 matchup between the Chicago Bears and the Baltimore Ravens on October 26, 2025, at M&T Bank Stadium brings two franchises at very different points in their seasons face-to-face under high-stakes circumstances. The Ravens, who entered the year with championship aspirations, have endured a disastrous 1–5 start fueled by injuries, inconsistency, and an offense that has struggled to find its rhythm without Lamar Jackson. Jackson’s hamstring injury has forced Baltimore to rely on backup quarterback Tyler Huntley, and while capable, Huntley has not been able to replicate the explosive playmaking that defines Jackson’s game. The Ravens’ offense has averaged under 17 points per game in Jackson’s absence, and their usually dominant run game has suffered as well, ranking in the bottom third of the league in yards per carry over the last three weeks. The absence of star tight end Mark Andrews, who has been dealing with a lingering ankle issue, has only compounded Baltimore’s offensive woes, forcing receivers like Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman to carry the passing game with limited success. On defense, injuries have been equally damaging, with linebacker Roquan Smith and cornerback Marlon Humphrey both missing time, leaving the Ravens’ defense vulnerable to big plays and unable to generate consistent pressure. Head coach John Harbaugh, typically known for his steadiness and leadership, has faced increasing scrutiny as his team continues to underperform in games where they are favored. The Ravens desperately need a win at home to avoid falling deeper into the AFC North basement, and the potential return of both Jackson and Smith this week could be the spark they need to reset their season. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears come into this game looking like a completely different team from the one that stumbled through much of 2024. At 4–2, they have quietly developed into one of the NFC’s surprise success stories, with head coach Matt Eberflus finding a rhythm that blends defensive grit with improving offensive efficiency.

The emergence of quarterback Caleb Williams, the 2024 first-overall draft pick, has transformed Chicago’s offense. Williams’ ability to extend plays, throw on the run, and keep defenses off balance has given the Bears a legitimate identity on offense for the first time in years. His chemistry with wide receiver DJ Moore has been electric, while the addition of veteran receiver Keenan Allen has provided a reliable possession option on critical downs. Running back Khalil Herbert continues to complement the passing attack with efficient, north-south running, giving Chicago the kind of balance that keeps defenses honest. On defense, the Bears have improved dramatically from last season’s inconsistencies, with linebacker Tremaine Edmunds and safety Jaquan Brisker leading a unit that has forced turnovers in bunches. Chicago’s defensive line, bolstered by Montez Sweat, has been particularly disruptive, ranking near the top of the league in quarterback pressures since Week 4. Against Baltimore, their defensive game plan will focus on containing Jackson’s mobility (if he plays), closing rushing lanes, and forcing the Ravens into long third-down situations where their passing game has faltered. From a betting perspective, this matchup presents an intriguing contrast between form and reputation. Baltimore enters as the likely home favorite based on historical strength and name value, but their 1–5 record against the spread this season paints a concerning picture of a team not meeting expectations. Chicago, on the other hand, has quietly built a strong ATS profile, covering in three of their last five games while outperforming expectations as an underdog. If Jackson returns, the Ravens will gain a significant boost, particularly with their ability to sustain drives and control the clock with their rushing attack. However, even with Jackson back, Baltimore’s lack of cohesion on both sides of the ball gives Chicago a real opportunity to capitalize. For the Bears, the key will be avoiding early mistakes, maintaining offensive tempo, and executing efficiently in the red zone, where the Ravens’ defense has historically been stingy. If Williams can stay composed against Baltimore’s blitz packages and the Bears’ offensive line can protect him, Chicago has the tools to pull off an upset on the road. Expect a hard-fought, physical contest that hinges on quarterback play, ball security, and third-down efficiency. With one team desperate to salvage its season and the other seeking to prove its legitimacy, this game could be one of Week 8’s most compelling matchups—and potentially another sign that the Bears’ resurgence under Eberflus and Williams is no fluke.