Chicago Bears (2-2) at Carolina Panthers (2-2)

Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET, at Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte – TV: FOX

*TV announcers: Thom Brennaman, David Diehl, Laura Okmin

*Keys to the game: Carolina’s vaunted defense is not devoid of talent, but the front seven is heavily taxed, allowing 140.8 rushing yards per game and a 49 percent third-down conversion rate. The Bears’ multiple offense brings some of the same unique challenges the Panthers fought unsuccessfully against Pittsburgh and in Baltimore, losses in which they were outscored a combined 75-29. RB Matt Forte was able to get downhill last week from sets using zone-blocking principles designed to beat blitz fronts. With Carolina’s front four failing to get to the passer, coach Ron Rivera has leaned more on extra pressure that brings a high-risk, high-reward element into play.

Leaving QB Jay Cutler to find a hot read in single coverage, even against Carolina’s long-levered defensive backs, would be a losing proposition.

Mobility is typically Panthers QB Cam Newton’s calling card, but he is hemmed in the pocket by an ankle injury that is unlikely to heal fully without rest. Having a healthy back to hand off to would be the biggest benefit to Newton, who is otherwise a sitting duck in the pocket relative to when he’s fully healthy.

Chicago rarely blitzes to generate pressure, but after being picked apart by Aaron Rodgers last week, defensive coordinator Mel Tucker could get the green light without losing awareness of Chicago’s lack of playmakers at safety.

*Matchup to watch – Bears TE Martellus Bennett vs. Panthers MLB Luke Kuechly: Bennett’s height, hands and surprising wiggle to dodge the first defender have been on display in the first four weeks and he’s third in the NFL with 29 catches. With safeties shading Alshon Jeffery and Brandon Marshall, Bennett is winning one-on-one matchups. His major size advantage makes him a primary option again this week.

*Player spotlight – Panthers RB Darrin Reaves: With or without DeAngelo Williams (ankle), Reaves will be on the field, Rivera said. With Carolina scrapping for 3.1 yards per carry, the Panthers plan to make a stronger commitment to get the running game going.

*Fast facts: Newton passed for 300-plus yards in each of his two previous games against Chicago. … Kuechly leads the NFL with 366 tackles since he entered the NFL in 2012. … Forte averages 155.8 yards per game in four career meetings.

WHO WILL WIN AND WHY

Carolina slid from second to 17th in total defense in dropping two consecutive games. If the Panthers can contain Forte and the running game of Chicago, Newton makes a play with the game on the line.

*Our pick: Panthers 27-24