Commanders provided the tough road test that highlighted the Bears’ resilience, a benchmark for the team as it navigates a mix of opponents and seeks to sustain momentum.

Mentioned as the prior opponent whose run-defense and pass-rush presented concerns, providing context for the Bears’ improved execution and the need to keep the momentum against a capable short-week opponent.

Washington was on the receiving end of Chicago's Monday night win, a reminder of how far the Bears have come and a measure of Chicago's ability to close out tight games.

Commanders sit in the middle of the hardest schedule list, facing back-to-back road trips and high-profile opponents, challenging fantasy decision-making and betting angles over the next four weeks.

Croskey-Merritt produced a 17-61 line amid ball-security issues, including a costly fumble and botched exchange. He remains a functional early-season workload carrier but volatility persists due to turnovers.