1. The problem is to compare the function $y = -4x - 98$ to the parent function $y = x$. 2. The parent function $y = x$ is a linear function with slope 1 and y-intercept 0. 3. The given function $y = -4x - 98$ is also linear, with slope $-4$ and y-intercept $-98$. 4. The slope $-4$ means the line is steeper and decreasing, unlike the parent function which increases with slope 1. 5. The y-intercept $-98$ means the line crosses the y-axis much lower than the parent function. 6. In summary, compared to $y = x$, the function $y = -4x - 98$ is a steeper line that slopes downward and is shifted down by 98 units on the y-axis.