NFL Monday night spotlight: Lions vs. Bears

Detroit (2-3) at Chicago (4-1)

Time: 5:30 p.m. TV: ESPN

Story line: The Bears look to widen their NFC North lead over the slow-starting Lions. Last week’s rally to defeat Philadelphia was a motivational moment that could drive the Lions, who’ve been hampered by a weak run game and surprisingly quiet front-seven play. Matthew Stafford will certainly look to throw at the Bears, but Lance Briggs and Charles Tillman have returned interceptions for scores in consecutive games.

Lions said: “It’s a great chance and the coach has been stressing that. If we win, we’re right back in it.� — Justin Durant, linebacker

Bears said: “They do a lot of different run blitzes and things like that, so we’re going to have to do play-actions and stuff to try to calm that down. It really just starts up front with not allowing penetration.� — Matt Forte, running back

Bottom line: The Bears are favored by 6 1/2 points. … Detroit star Calvin Johnson only has only one touchdown reception, and the ball was not thrown by Stafford. … The teams had hostile moments last season, with Ndamukong Suh tearing Bears quarterback Jay Cutler’s helmet off. … Bears cornerback Tim Jennings started the weekend tied for the NFL lead with four interceptions.