Bears vs Seahawks: Going behind enemy lines to preview Week 17 matchup

The Chicago Bears (4-11) are mercifully nearing the end of their highly disappointing season, and they'll play the final home game of the season on Thursday night against the Seattle Seahawks (8-7).

In a game that will feature two teams that are completely opposite from one another, Seattle is fighting for a playoff berth and the NFC West title, putting all the emphasis on the Seahawks to come out ready to take advantage of a Bears team down on themselves.

Ahead of their Thursday Night Football matchup against the Seahawks, we caught up with managing editor Kole Musgrove of Seahawks Wire to get the scoop on the Bears' Week 17 opponent.

Here are five questions with Seahawks Wire:

1. How would you describe Mike Macdonald's first year as head coach?

Kole Musgrove: Macdonald’s first year as coach has been uneven, but I would say it has been more good than bad. Macdonald was brought in to fix the defense, which he mostly has. The run defense especially, as it’s no longer getting bullied in each game. The pass rush has also become more consistent. However, the defense has struggled in big games and in important moments against quality opponents. There is still a talent and coaching gap between Seattle and the best in the League. That being said, I am incredibly happy with him as the top man and am encouraged.

2. Who is Seattle's best offensive weapon? There are so many names to choose from.

Musgrove: Jaxon Smith-Njigba has emerged as a truly lethal weapon, and is finally living up to his top billing as the No. 1 receiver drafted last year. His connection with Geno Smith is cerebral and he is flat out taking over games.

3. Does Seattle have the best cornerback duo in Riq Woolen and Devon Witherspoon?

Musgrove: Devon Witherspoon is phenomenal, and so is Riq Woolen… in theory. Woolen has all the skills and talent to be a top tier cornerback in this League, and we’ve seen it plenty. Unfortunately, he has serious mental… and dare I say, effort… lapses where he is inexplicably burned or fails to even make a play on passes he should easily intercept. Woolen was benched for one game last year, and was benched to start the game last week. There are concerns with him.

4. Would you say the Seahawks can be a real problem if they make the playoffs?

Musgrove: If the Seahawks can put it all together on both sides of the ball, they are dominant. We saw it in the Week 7 victory over Atlanta and in Week 14 over Arizona. However, the Falcons and Cardinals aren’t exactly playoff heavyweights. However, the Seahawks are 2-5 this year against teams currently in a playoff position. Like I said there is a clear gap between them and legit contenders. As much as it pains me to say, I’m not sure who would be scared of them should they sneak in.

5. Prediction: Who wins and why?

Musgrove: That being said, I can’t pick against them here. For the first time in their last 11 games, the Seahawks are actually favored, and I get why. Seattle is desperate and Chicago is playing for nothing. Additionally, the Seahawks pass rush should make life miserable for Caleb Williams who practically gives himself up for a sack on every single pressure. The lack of Ken Walker III in the game is a blow to Seattle’s offense, but they should have enough talent to outlast the Bears. Give me the Seahawks 24-14.

This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears vs Seahawks: Going behind enemy lines to preview Week 17 matchup