Bears Week 4 Power Rankings: Case Keenum, Defense Silence Doubters

As the calendar flips to September 30, 2026, the Chicago Bears find themselves in a surprisingly favorable position: 2-1 and climbing in the power rankings. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the Bears’ Monday Night Football dismantling of the previously undefeated Philadelphia Eagles has shifted the narrative from a season on the brink to a team with newfound resilience. With starting quarterback Caleb Williams sidelined by a hamstring injury, journeyman Case Keenum stepped in and delivered a performance for the ages, torching the Eagles for 247 yards and three total touchdowns. The 38-year-old’s heroics, combined with a stifling defensive effort, have vaulted Chicago up the rankings across major outlets.

Case Keenum: The Unlikely Hero

Keenum, who hadn’t started a regular-season game since 2019, looked like a seasoned starter against Philadelphia. His 247 passing yards and two aerial scores, plus a rushing touchdown, earned him praise from analysts nationwide. As highlighted on Vulius, ProFootballTalk’s Mike Florio noted, “They should ride with Case Keenum until Caleb Williams returns.” The veteran’s poise under center has given the Bears a luxury few teams enjoy: a capable backup who can win games. With Williams expected to miss at least two more weeks, Keenum’s steady hand could keep Chicago in the playoff hunt.

Defense Stepping Up

While Keenum’s story captures headlines, the Bears’ defense has quietly emerged as a force. In Week 3, they held the Eagles to just seven points and forced three turnovers. Yahoo Sports’ Frank Schwab pointed out that if not for a half-second miscue before halftime, Chicago might have pitched a shutout. “The Bears’ defense might be much better than expected,” Schwab wrote. That unit, led by T.J. Edwards’ interception and a relentless pass rush, has allowed just 16 points over the past two games. If the defense continues to perform at this level, the Bears will be a tough out for any opponent.

Power Rankings Roundup

The victory over Philadelphia caused a ripple effect in power rankings across the sports landscape. Here’s where the Bears stand according to various experts:

• The Athletic: No. 9 (up from 12)
• NFL.com: No. 12 (up from 16)
• Yahoo Sports: No. 11 (up from 14)
• CBS Sports: No. 9 (up from 12)
• ESPN: No. 11 (steady)
• USA Today: No. 9 (up from 13)

These rankings reflect a growing belief that the Bears are more than just a team treading water until Williams returns. As ESPN’s Courtney Cronin noted, the emergence of wide receiver Kalif Raymond—who leads the team with 21 targets, 19 catches, 214 yards, and a touchdown—has added a new dimension to the offense. Raymond’s fantasy value has skyrocketed, and his punt return abilities make him a dual threat.

What’s Next for the Bears?

Chicago will look to build on their momentum as they enter the second quarter of the season. With Williams still recovering, Keenum will likely get another start, but the team’s success isn’t solely on his shoulders. The defense, led by coordinator Dennis Allen, has proven it can carry the load. As CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco put it, “If the Bears’ defense is even above average, the offense will be very good when Caleb Williams returns, or apparently no matter who is playing quarterback.” That versatility could make Chicago a dangerous contender in the NFC. For now, the Bears have silenced doubters and injected life into a season that once seemed destined for struggle.

“They instead decided to rise above and drop a hammer on Philadelphia.” – Frank Schwab, Yahoo Sports

As the first quarter of the 2026 season wraps up, the Bears have shown they can weather adversity. With a favorable schedule ahead and key players returning soon, Chicago is positioning itself as a team to watch. Stay tuned to Vulius for continued coverage and analysis of the Bears’ journey.