As the Chicago Bears prepare to face the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 1st, fans are looking for signs of hope after a challenging season. The Bears' recent performances, while not translating into a winning record, have shown glimpses of potential that could upset the Lions in their own den.

Buffalo Bills running back Nyheim Hines (20) is tackled Chicago Bears cornerback Josh Blackwell during the second half of an NFL football game, Saturday, Dec. 24, 2022, in Chicago. The Bills won 35-13. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

The last three games for the Bears have been a mixed bag with some promising aspects. On December 24th against the Buffalo Bills, despite falling short with only 13 points to Buffalo's 35, there were two interceptions and a solid punting game averaging 49 yards. However, turnovers and limited third-down conversions (17 percent) hindered their chances.

Against the Philadelphia Eagles on December 18th, the offense showed more life with an improved red zone efficiency of 67 percent and an average gain per play of over four yards. The defense also stepped up with two interceptions and forced fumbles but ultimately couldn't hold off a late surge by Philadelphia.

Chicago Bears running back David Montgomery (32) is tackled by Buffalo Bills defensive end Shaq Lawson (90) in the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Saturday, Dec. 24, 2022. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

The game against Green Bay Packers on December 4th showcased what this team can do when it clicks. A strong rushing performance yielded two touchdowns and an impressive average gain per play of over eight yards. Despite three turnovers marring their efforts, they demonstrated resilience throughout.

The key takeaway from these past performances is that when CHI minimizes mistakes and capitalizes on opportunities – particularly in the red zone – they can be competitive even against formidable opponents.

Buffalo Bills running back Nyheim Hines, center, runs past Chicago Bears cornerback Kyler Gordon, left, cornerback Josh Blackwell during the second half of an NFL football game, Saturday, Dec. 24, 2022, in Chicago. The Bills won 35-13. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Looking ahead to Detroit Lions who will host CHI at Ford Field; if CHI brings its A-game as seen in flashes during previous weeks – especially that ground attack which seems capable of breaking out for big gains – then fans might just witness an upset brewing under Michigan's roofed stadium.

It's clear that consistency is what CHI needs most; harnessing their evident potential into four quarters of disciplined football is paramount. With January 1st marking not just another game but also symbolizing new beginnings, it would be fitting for CHI to start off by setting a precedent for next season’s aspirations right there at Ford Field.

Fans eager to see if CHI can turn potential into victory should tune into FOX network at precisely noon local time (6 PM GMT) on New Year’s Day to catch all the action live from Detroit’s iconic venue.

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