What to know when the Vikings travel to play the Chicago Bears on Sunday afternoon:

Vikings at Bears
When: 12 p.m. Sunday
Where: Soldier Field
TV: FOX
Radio: KFAN
Line: Vikings -3.5
Over/Under: 39.5

Keys for the Vikings

— The best way for the Vikings to run away with a win is by dominating on defense. This matchup has the chance to be a masterclass from defensive coordinator Brian Flores going up against the Bears and rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. It’s a good bet that the Vikings are able to overwhelm Williams with exotic fronts before the snap and unorthodox blitzes after the snap. If the Vikings can find a way to do that, they should put themselves in good position to win.

— After bouncing back last weekend with arguably his most impressive performance this season, veteran quarterback Sam Darnold will once again need to be the straw the stirs the drink for the Vikings. That starts and stops with Darnold taking care of the ball. If he can avoid turnovers, the Vikings should be able to move the chains against the Bears.

Keys for the Bears

— If the small sample size from last weekend was any indication, with new offensive coordinator Thomas Brown calling the plays, the Bears are going to make a concerted effort to use Williams as both a passer and a runner. His ability to create outside of the pocket is the most difficult thing to prepare for heading into the game. If Williams can put stress on the Vikings with his legs, that should open up lanes for running back D’Andre Swift.

— It will be interesting to see how the Bears defend Vikings star receiver Justin Jefferson. Will they ask top cornerback Jaylon Johnson to shadow him in single coverage? Will they give whoever is matched up with Jefferson constant help over the top? The latter has been a strategy most teams have deployed. Though it might be easier said than done, it’s imperative the Bears limit Jefferson as much as possible.

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