5 things to keep an eye on as the Panthers look to conquer Chicago

Andy Dalton has averaged 270 yards per game over the last two weeks, with five touchdowns and just one interception, for a completion percentage of 65.4. The Bears' defense held teams to an average of 320 yards per game, including 175 through the air. Much of Dalton's early success can be attributed to his quickly developed chemistry with Johnson.

Dalton has targeted Johnson 27 times in the last two games for 15 receptions, 205 yards and two touchdowns. Even though the defense has started to focus more on Johnson, the receiver is working to be who Dalton needs him to be.

“It allows me to play fast,” Johnson said of Dalton’s experience. “I always have a plan on the line and me being myself, that allows me, me and him, that little connection that we have, just allows me to know that I can do certain things on my routes “That he's counting on me, so.” At the end of the day, my job is to make sure I'm in the right spot and making a play whenever the ball comes my way.

“Andy, a veteran back there. This just goes to show you that you know what to expect when you have a vet back there. This allows you to just go out there, play fast and just be yourself and just not overthink it.

With Adam Thielen (hamstring) out, Johnson said he noticed the Bengals started playing him differently in Week 4, muddying him and overplaying the safety. If the Bears go for Johnson this week, it gives a receiver like Xavier Legette — who had six catches for 66 yards and his first touchdown last week — a chance to use his natural ability to win matchups, which is all part of Dave Canales is 'plan.

“Right now we have a starting point and that starts with Diontae Johnson and trying to find ways to mold him to look good that way,” the coach said this week. “Last week he saw a little double coverage. Well, guess what? for the defense when we have a focal point and a starting point in our passing game. And that’s what I’m happy about.”

Of Dalton's 77 pass attempts this season, 51 were quick passes (66.2%). On rushing passes, the Bears have allowed the lowest completion rate above expectations (-7.6%) and the fifth-fewest yards (268).