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Bears Opponent Profile: Detroit Lions

Where: Soldier Field, Chicago

When: 12:00 PM Sunday

Where the Lions Stand: The lions are 4 – 2 and are a game behind the first place Green Bay Packers.  They will be looking to keep pace with them and send their rival Bears further down the ladder.

Lions Head Coach: Rod Marinelli

Lions Offensive Coordinator: Mike Martz

Lions Defensive Coordinator: Joe Barry

Lions Special Teams Coach: Stan Kwan

Lions QB Jon Kitna guaranteed his team would win 10 games this year before the regular season started, and he’s doing his part in terms of helping to make that prediction come to fruition. The veteran signal caller has made some significant progress in his second season in offensive coordinator Mike Martz’s pass-oriented system, completing 69.5 percent of his passes for 1,480 yards and tossing eight touchdowns and six interceptions en route to helping the Lions start 4-2. To put its current record in perspective, Detroit won three games total in 2006. While he has some talent to work with, Kitna’s production is impressive when considering the poor protection he receives from his offensive line and lack of running game the 34-year old quarterback has to work with.  However, the reemergence of Kevin Jones should bolster the teams run game.

The Lions have the seventh-ranked (by yardage) passing offense in the NFL, but their running game is another story. To say Detroit’s ground attack has been ineffective would be an understatement. The Lions are producing just 85 yards via the ground game per contest this season, which has them ranked 27^th in this particular category. For most of the season, Detroit’s primary ball carrier has been Tatum Bell, who was acquired via a trade with Denver during the off-season. While he hasn’t posted great numbers, Bell is considered a player that can break a big run at any time.  Kevin Jones, a first-round draft pick in 2004, is coming off a “Lisfranc” foot injury that cost him the 2006 season. He hadn’t been the same player and was seeing limited carries, but is coming back into form. Jones has rushed for 167 yards on just 39 carries (4.3 avg.) and three touchdowns.  Last week, the Lions informed Jones that he would be their primary mail carrier from here on out.  Last week against the Bucs, Jones displayed the power and cutting that earned him his high draft status.  With a healthy rotation, the Detroit run attack should improve with Jones as the lead. Chicago’s defense ranks 26^th against the run, and have not been the same team from last year’s championship run. They allowed Philadelphia’s potent ground game to gain 123 yards on 25 carries (4.92 yard average) last week. The Bears can’t afford to let the Lions’ resurgent ground game get going. They need to make Detroit’s offense one-dimensional and force Kitna to beat the Bears with his arm.

Lions head coach Rod Marinielli is well versed in the Bear’s defensive scheme, seeing as both he and Lovie Smith are Tampa Bay imports. Marinielli likely will give Martz some pointers on how to attack the Cover 2 scheme, which is the same system Marinielli has implemented in Detroit. Kitna likely will throw the ball quite a bit in this contest at the Bears depleted secondary. He has a talented group of receivers to work with, which includes Roy Williams, Mike Furrey, Shaun McDonald and Calvin Johnson.  The stars of this group are the team’s two former top ten first round picks, Williams and Johnson, but in reality all four are extremely productive.  The Lions likely will feature plenty of three-receiver sets in this game, which means the Bears could really use cornerback Nathan Vasher, who is still not practicing and unlikely to play.  Furrey has caught 21 passes for 260 yards (12.4 avg.) but is still looking for the end zone in 2007.  McDonald is a former St. Louis Ram and has great speed and familiarity with Detroit’s offense, which has allowed him to catch 24 passes for 287 yards and three touchdowns.   Johnson, who was the No. 2 overall draft pick in April, is coming along but hasn’t cracked the starting lineup. He’s caught 13 passes for 229 yards and three touchdowns. However, his 6-foot-5, 239-pound frame gives him a sizeable advantage over smaller defensive backs.  Expect Charles Tillman (6-1) to be matched up on Johnson when he’s on the field.  With Vasher out of the line up the Bear’s back-ups will struggle to contain this stable of receivers, as they lack the size, ball skills, and speed to match up with them.  Kitna likely will go up top to the athletic rookie a few times in this game. Chicago’s front seven needs to limit Detroit’s ground game in order to leave safeties Adam Archuleta and Daniel Manning back in coverage. Archuleta and Chicago linebackers Hillenmeyer and Urlacher will also need to help contain Lions tight end Sean McHugh, who has hauled in seven passes for 98 yards. Despite having arguably the most talented group of wide receivers in the NFL, Detroit’s offense is converting just 29 percent of its third downs this season (31^st in the league).

Detroit’s offensive line features left tackle Jeff Backus, left guard Edwin Mulitalo, center Dominic Raiola, right guard Damien Woody and right tackle George Foster. Mulitalo and Foster were added in the off-season after Detroit gave up a whopping 63 sacks in 2006, but this unit still is struggling in terms of run blocking and pass protection. Detroit is rushing for just 85 yards per game and has surrendered 31 sacks in six games, which comes out to over five quarterback takedowns per game.  This is good news for the Bears, whose defense is allowing opposing offenses to convert only 37 percent of their third down attempts (7^th in the league) this season. Backus is the offensive line’s best player, but even this former first-round pick isn’t playing well.  Although the Bears defensive line is injured and will likely be missing some back ups, their starters should be able to get some traction against this group. Backus’ recent woes should bode well for Bears defensive end Mark Anderson, who is as fast as they come off of the corner. Kitna has the arm and the receivers to make the Bears pay if they give him a comfortable pocket to throw out of.

Detroit has a talented front four that is made up of defensive ends Dewayne White and Kalimba Edwards and defensive tackles Cory Redding and Shaun Rogers. The 6-foot-4, 340-pound Rogers plays the nose tackle position in Detroit’s version of the Cover 2 scheme, which is now led by former Bucs linebackers coach and new defensive coordinator Joe Barry. Needless to say, Rogers commands double teams quite often. Bears center Olin Kruetz and left guard Ruben Brown (assuming he plays) will likely team up to keep Rogers at bay in this contest. Redding became the highest-paid defensive tackle in the NFL during the off-season, but he hasn’t lived up to that contract so far this season. In fact, he’s still looking for his first sack, which is a big disappointment since Redding often times finds himself in one-on-one matchups with the opposing team’s guard. Bears right guard Robert Garza will be charged with holding off Redding on passing downs and driving him off the ball on running plays. White, has been inconsistent this season. He’s notched 4.5 sacks, but struggled at times against the run. However, White has playmaking ability, evidenced by the fact that he’s forced two fumbles and recorded an interception. He will go up against Bears veteran right tackle Fred Miller. John Tait will be matched up with Edwards, who has recorded two sacks through five games. Detroit’s defense is giving up an average of 117 yards rushing per game, but Chicago might not be able to capitalize on this unit’s suspect play against the run because of their own problems. The Bears starting running back (who shall remain nameless) has been ineffective, as has been discussed and displayed throughout the season.

Detroit’s linebackers possess good speed, which is a necessity in any successful Cover 2 scheme. Lions second-year weakside linebacker Ernie Sims is Detroit’s version of Lance Briggs. He has great speed and is a tackling machine. In addition to leading the team in tackles, Sims has recorded one forced fumble and an interception this season. Strongside linebacker Boss Bailey also has speed, but lacks playmaking ability. The middle linebacker spot, which is occupied by Paris Lenon, is considered suspect. As talented as this group is, the linebackers have not been consistent in terms of helping the Lions defense shut down opposing teams ground attacks. Chicago is hoping tight ends Desmond Clark and Greg Olson, can play well in this contest in order to give quarterback Brian Griese two reliable targets in the passing game. With a healthy dose of Clark and Olson, Detroit’s outside linebackers likely will have a difficult time covering the middle and deep middle.

The Lions are surrendering 269 yards per game through the air, which makes their secondary 30^th in the league in terms of yardage. Bears quarterback Brian Griese has a penchant for throwing interceptions, and the Lions defense has come up with nine of them, so the veteran signal caller will have to be careful with the ball. Detroit cornerback Fernando Bryant has recorded one of those picks. He will have the opportunity to intercept more passes as Griese likely will work the passing game early and often. Bernard Berrian is Chicago’s speed threat, and appears to have a favorable match up with Bryant, who lacks size but is considered a good tackler. The Lions would prefer to leave safeties Gerald Alexander and Kenoy Kennedy back in coverage to help account for Berrian, but they’ll have to bring one or both of those players up into the box if the Bears find a way to get the running game going. Alexander has recorded one interception this season.  Detroit’s starting cornerbacks rank third and fourth on the team in total tackles. While they both are willing to play the run, both Bryant and Wilson also get tested by opposing team’s quarterbacks quite often. That’s exactly what Griese likely will do in this game. The key for the Bears in this contest will be to keep the chains moving. The Lions are allowing opposing offenses to convert 46 percent of their third downs this season. Not only will it need to score points, Chicago’s offense simply can’t afford to leave its defense on the field all day with Detroit’s potentially potent offense.

Although, I’ve been warned against it.  I am going to continue to make score predictions here.  This will be an offensive shoot out with the Bears constantly looking to catch up on their home turf.  I’m going against the fan inclination and say the Lions take this one.  However, if the Bears can find a way to actually run the ball, they could turn this around.  Being the diligent sports reporter that I am, I decided to do some scout work last week and watched the Tampa Bay and Detroit game.  Tampa dominated the time of possession game, and by the end of the contest Lions defenders were littering the field with injuries (including Shaun Rogers bum ankle).  If Cedric Bumson can pretend like he actually cares about the game, the Bears could put a hurting on the Lions defense and mute the Lions wideouts. 

Here’s betting against Bumson: Bears 21, Lions 31.

Posted: Thursday, October 25, 2007 9:13 AM by TheGoose with 916 comment(s)

Bears Week 7 - Eagles Profile

Where:                                     Lincoln Financial Field (“The Linc”), Philadelphia, PA

When:                                      3:15 PM, Sunday, October 21, 2007

Where the Eagles Stand:          The Eagles are currently in last place in the NFC North division, they are 3.5 games out of first place.  Their two wins this season have been against the Detroit Lions (Week 3) and the New York Jets (Week 6)

Coverage:                                 Dick Stockton & Merril Reese(play by play), Brian Baldinger (color)

Eagles Head Coach:                  Andy Reid

Eagles Offensive Coordinator:    Marty (F’n) Mornhinweg

Eagles Defensive Coordinator:   Jim Johnson

Eagles Special Teams Coach:    John Harbaugh

Did you know . . . . Andy Reid and the Eagles have won their last five games against the Bears. Also, Andy Reid was the (F’n) Packers WR’s and TE’s coach from 1992 – 1998.

Injuries: Brian Dawkins (Safety/neck) and L.J. Smith (TE/Hernia) have not participated in practice. Tackle Tra Thomas (knee) has been limited in practice.  Though listed on the injury report, Shawn Andrews (Guard), Reggie Brown (WR), Greg Lewis (WR), and Lito Sheppard (CB) have all participated in practice.  For The Bears: Tommie Harris and Nathan Vasher have not participated in practice this week. Ruben Brown and Darwin Walker have been limited in practice. 

SCOUTING THE EAGLES

Quarterbacks

Donavon McNabb’s play this season speaks to the overall Eagles’ play as a team: inconsistent. On the season, he’s thrown for 1,120 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. However, 4 of those touchdowns came in one game, and that was against the Lions in Week 2.  In case you were wondering what the Lion’s pass defense is like, well its 30^th in the league (and that is consistent). As you may recall, McNabb suffered a leg injury late last year requiring surgery and off-season rehab.  He is accurate at times, but something is off for a quarterback that is in the prime of his career and historically is a shoe-in for the Pro Bowl.  When he’s on his game, he is one of the best, creating plays out of nothing, making multiple reads, scrambling, scoring touchdowns. But, so far he’s not at mid-season form and that is very good news for the Bears.  In fact, this year, if someone on the field isn’t in some horrible colored throwback uniform, the Eagles have yet win game.  So, here’s hoping that the Bears don’t decide to wear those prison break-orange jerseys.

Brian Westbrook. For most teams, it’s the QB that is the face franchise. Hell, that is the case for the Eagles too.  But the legs, back, shoulders, and guts are Brian Westbrook.  Last week, the Bears were charged with stopping Adrian Peterson to secure a win (oops).  This week is no different, and no easier.  Brian Westbrook is listed at all of 5’ 10” tall (I didn’t know they stacked shit that high, I think he’s trying to squeeze an inch in on me somewhere). No matter, he’s terrific in open space and between the tackles, and Andy Reid uses him in a multitude of ways.  He’ll be lined up everywhere from tailback to wide out.  Although, the overall offense has been spotty, he has still rushed for 411 yards and two touchdowns adding another 177 yards and one touchdown trough the air. Westbrook sat out Week 5 with an abdominal strain, but returned last week and rushed for 120 yards and looked like he hadn’t missed a beat. The Eagles are heavy on the screen pass, and they run it with great guise.  With the attention paid to Westbrook, the Eagles also have a wicked play action. His back-up is Correl Buckhalter, a slightly larger back that is more of a power runner. Buck doesn’t have Westbrook's moves, but he is effective. He has even been considered for starter duty in past years. Rookie Tony Hunt has seen limited action.

The Eagles have gotten their yards in chunks this year, mostly in Week 2 against the Lions (seeing a trend here). No matter, the main headache has been identified: Kevin Curtis.  Curtis, a 5^th year player, was a slot receiver in the St. Louis offense, where he backed up Isaac Bruce and Tori Holt.  This year, apparently, he’s looking to make a name for himself.  His Week 2 performance against the Lions was an all out highlight reel day for Curtis, posting 11 receptions, 221 yards, and 3 TDs.  His only other TD of the season was last week against the Jets.  Curtis has been the most productive in their two wins this season and has big play ability (see his touchdowns from 68 yards and 75 yards for proof).  The other receivers include Reggie Brown, Greg Lewis, Jason Avant, and Hank Baskett.  All the receivers are average in height and weight at best, and in some circles considered weak.  The Eagles run the classic West Coast Offense as promulgated by the late great Bill Walsh (Andy Reid being on of his many disciples).  It’s a rhythm based offense that requires receivers to be in certain spots, as the QB will anticipate their arrival.  This is easily disrupted by jamming the receivers at the line of scrimmage. The Bears have physical cornerbacks that can’t be afraid to jam these wideouts. Excepting Curtis, there isn’t a blazer in the bunch. 

Tight End L.J. Smith has been terrific for this team.  However, he has missed three weeks this season due to surgery and came back to play against the Jets last week.  He is not practicing right now, should play, and should not be a factor.  He had one catch for eight yards last week.

From left to right, Tra Thomas, Todd Herremans, Jamaal Jackson, Shaun Andrews, and John Runyan man the O-line. The symptoms of any offense’s illness are often traced back to this source.  This offense has been similar to the Bears in that the have been terrifically ineffective at times.  Tra Thomas . . . Shaun Andrews . . . I’m a believer.  However, the left guard, center, and right tackle are suspect.  John Runyan entered the league in 1996, and is well past his prime.  On passing downs, the Bears should think about lining up Mark Anderson against this aged veteran and set the cameras for record.  Outside of these starters there seems to be little depth/ability.  Two weeks ago, with Tra Thomas out of the game, second year player Winston Justice gave up SIX SACKS against the Giants.  The Bears need to treat this O-line like other teams have treated theirs and abuse it. Send the heat, send the blitz.  Expect to see Tommie Harris teeing off on their interior and collapsing McNabb’s pocket.

Javon Kearse (2.5 sacks), Mike Patterson (1.5 sacks), Brodrick Bunkley (2.0 sacks), Trent Cole  (6.0 sacks) are the starters from left to right, and have been extremely effective.  Aside from the sacks, this unit is very good at forcing pressure upon the quarterback. They collapse the pocket, forcing quick decisions.  The Bears O-line has been ineffective this year, and will need a redeeming performance against the Eagles this week.  One knock on Brian Griese is that he has always thrown the costly interception.  Quarterbacks in general, when pressured, will force the ball and make bad decisions (his always seem to get returned for TDs).  That will be the modus operandi this week for the Eagles.  Two words always associated with Jim Johnson (D-coordinatior) are “blitz happy”.  Hope that Brian Griese has been practicing his three-step drop this week.

Takeo Spikes is the star here and was the major offseason addition for the Eagles.  Spikes is a beast of a man, standing 6’2” and weighing every bit of 242 lbs. He’s been a man amongst boys for most of his career, but sometimes gone unnoticed because of the smaller markets that he’s played in (Buffalo and Cincinnati).  He’s nearly two years removed from major ACL surgery and seems to be finding his groove again.  He leads this crop of ‘backers with 32 tackles.  Spikes is a complete player, a fast, smart, and angry leader. He could be a real headache for Cedric Benson.  Elsewhere in the middle of the field is Omar Gaither, a 6’1” 235lb middle linebacker.  He is a second year pro out of Tennessee that is very agile and fast.  His strong points are his coverage ability, but he does get lost in the mix on run plays if O-lineman can make it to his level.  He has still posted 30 tackles and an interception on the season.  The other outside linebacker in the group is Chris Gocong, with 17 tackles.  He is clearly the weak point.  On the outside Gocong will be forced to cover either Desmond Clark or Greg Olson.  I think this week its max protect formation all day from the Bears.  It will aid in both pass protection and run support for Benson. Plus, both of the Bear’s pass catching tight ends could pay dividends on the scoreboard with extended action on the field this week.

The Eagles have a beat up secondary, who else does that sound like?  Lito Sheppard (cornerback) is probable for the game, but the defensive leader/captain, Brian Dawkins, is definitely out of this game.  That will leave cornerback Sheldon Brown and safeties Quitin Mikell and Shaun Considin in the backfield with Sheppard.  If Brian Griese has time (and that is a big “if” considering the underwhelming efforts by the Bears offensive line) plays are bound to be open down the field, a la Devin Hester’s game-tying 81 yard touchdown pass last week. Aside from Hester, who IS spotty on offense, Berrian and Bradley both have great speed.  In a blitz-heavy Philadelphia scheme, Bears receivers (wideouts and tight ends) have to find a way to get open downfield.

Special Teams – No one else is as good as Devin Hester (who went to my high school), so there really is no comparison.  The Eagles use a half-pint named Reno Mahae to return their punts and kicks. 'nuff said.

This face-off features two teams that have underachieved thus far.  The stats say that this should be a game dominated by the Eagles. But looking just a little farther, the only teams that they have beaten are the Lions and the Jets! These are bottom of the barrel teams, and definitely not any indication of offensive or defensive dominance.  If the Bears have any get-up-and-go left in them, they can certainly make a go of this game.  Point of fact, with their talent and depth, they have every reason to win the game.  If the Bears lose this game, it may be time to start hammering some nails, because the Super Bowl coffin is being constructed. Must-win game motivation prevails: Bears 27 Eagles 8.

Posted: Thursday, October 18, 2007 9:10 AM by TheGoose with 4 comment(s)

Bears 2007 Season Week 6: Minnesota Vikings come to Chicago. Pre-Game Write Up

PROFILE: MINNESOTA VIKINGS

Where: Soldier Field, Chicago

When: 12:00 PM Sunday

Where the Vikings Stand: The Minnesota Vikings are currently 1-3 and in sole possession of last place in the NFC North division. The Vikings are 1.5 games behind the Chicago Bears, who are ranked third in the division.

Vikings Head Coach: Brad Childress

Vikings Offensive Coordinator: Darrel Bevell

Vikings Defensive Coordinator: Leslie Frazier

Vikings Special Teams Coach: Brian Murphy

Did you know . . . The Viking’s defensive line is responsible for two defensive TD’s this season (an interception and a fumble recovery). Adrian Peterson has rushed for a 100 yards or more in three out of his four games this season.

SCOUTING THE VIKINGS

Quarterbacks

The bad news for the Bears is that they won’t be going against Kelly Holcomb this week. The good news is that the Bears will be facing Tavaris Jackson. Jackson, a first year starter, has been injured the past two games. But following the Viking’s bye week, he is ready to get back to work against the resurgent Bears defense. For those not familiar with Ms. Jackson, he stands 6-2, weighing in at 232lbs. He’s not a pure pocket passer and has a tremendous amount of mobility both inside and outside the pocket. However, this season his mobility has been has crowning achievement. While he has only been sacked once (in a two game span) he also has yet to throw his second touchdown of the season (He also ran for one in Week 2 against the Detroit Lions. So far, he has passed for 329 yards 1 TD, 5 INTs. His passer rating is 40.0, while completing only 53.6% of his passes. His lack of production isn’t solely his fault, the Vikings are lacking playmakers on the outside, which will be discussed below. Tavaris’ backup, Kelly Holcomb, hasn’t faired much better in his duty, barely completing 50% of his passes and getting sacked 5 times in Week 3 against the Chiefs. In short, Jackson’s passing options will be limited. But his ability to make plays with his feet could cause the Bears fits if they aren’t respecting his rushing lanes.

Running Backs

Will the real Adrian Peterson please stand up? Unfortunately, he wears purple. As far as the 2007 Vikings are concerned, it’s the Adrian Peterson show from here on out. At 6’1 and 217lbs, Peterson has rushed for 383 yards and 1 rushing TD this season. He also has fantastic hands, chipping in another 166 receiving yards and 1 TD catch on the season. AP is lightning quick, and has all the ability in the world. The only thing holding him back at this point is that defenses have not been given a reason to respect the pass. So, despite defenses stacking the box, he is still averaging 5.0 yards a rush. Where AP goes, so goes the Vikings offense. AP’s backups are Chestor Taylor and Mewelde Moore. Although Taylor has been injured this season, he should be available on Sunday. Moore is a change of pace-type back and returner.

Receivers

This is where the real offenders are. Despite a few high round draft picks and free agent acquisitions, apparently one of the top two receivers on this team is a man by the name of Bobby Wade. Maybe Waterboy is available. This stable has combined for 1 touchdown on the season, from rookie Sidney Rice. In fact Rice appears to be the biggest playmaker of the bunch (though not listed as a starter) as he is averaging 10.6 yards a catch. Troy Williamson, Aundrae Allison, Bobby Wade, and Robert Ferguson have yet to make a noteworthy contribution. In short, the unit of this offense appears to the weakest link. The Vikings play an inexperienced quarterback and have yet to identify a true number one receiver or tight end that the young signal caller can rely on. Despite Chicago’s trouble in the secondary, there should be no major concerns corralling this group. The Vikings also have tight end, Visanthe Shiancoe, who has 9 receptions for 197 yards, 0 TDs on the season.

Offensive Line

The Vikings have invested time, money, and draft picks on their offensive line and it shows. Bryant McKinnie, Steve Hutchinson, Matt Birk, Artis Hicks, and Ryan Cook are big, physical, and talented. Any lack of production on the offensive side of the ball can hardly be pointed in their direction. Despite a lack of respect for the passing game by opponents, the Vikings run game is averaging slightly better than 5 yards a carry. So, look for the Vikings to pound it at the Bears all game long, hoping that they can wear down an already depleted defense.

Defensive Line

Kenechi Udeze, Pat Williams, Kevin Williams, Ray Edwards. Odds are that at least one, if not all these players will hear their name called on Sunday. The Vikes have the NFL’s number one ranked rushing defense, anchored by the mammoth Pat Williams, 317 lbs, (no friggin’ way) and the svelte Kevin Williams, 311 lbs (also a joke). This unit has forced fumbles, produced interceptions, and scored touchdowns. The Chicago O-line will have to come together quickly and return to their 2006 form if they are going to stand up against the 7 – 800 pounds of Williamses that await them in the interior of the line. Cedric Benson is averaging 3.0 yards a carry, and this looks to be his toughest competition to date, as he does not consistently have the speed to turn the corner. Look for the Bears to use multiple misdirection, counter, and screen plays to slow down an aggressive front from the Vikings. Also, it wouldn’t hurt to employ some more double tight end looks this week (we’ve got two good ones). This week, the Bear’s short and intermediate plays could rely a lot more on the passing game. Could this game really be on Brian Griese’s shoulders?? Don’t worry Bears fans, that’s not such a bad thing. Mr. Griese saw his first live game action in two years two weeks ago, and still did enough last week to get his team to a win. He’s been productive throughout his career, not matter what the local media may tell you. Look for a little more production this week against a very difficult opponent.

Linebackers

While the strength of the Viking’s defense is up front on the line, this group is no bunch of slouches either. Ben Leber is an import from the Sand Diego defense from two years ago, Chad Greenway is a first found pick out of Iowa from two years ago, and EJ Henderson is there too. They are incredibly active, have sideline-to-sideline speed, and can pack a punch. That being said, there are no Pro Bowlers here this season. They have produced 1.5 sacks, no interceptions, and two fumble recoveries collectively. This unit can, and must be, exploited on the short/intermediate passes that the Bears are bound to be working. Greg Olson, Desmond Clark, and Moose should be attacking this area, while Hester and Berrian are drawing the coverage over the top.

Secondary

The secondary of the Vikings matches up well with their front seven; they are physical hitters. But they can be exploited due to suspect pass coverage at times. The star of this group is Antoine Winfield, who has produced 29 tackles, 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 touchdown. He has been the most active and likely the one that Brian Griese should be steering away from this week. On the other side of the field is Cedric Griffin. That’s right, the guy you’ve never heard of. Speaking of guys you’ve never heard of, if the Bears don’t start getting Mark Bradley the ball, you have to consider that there is a serious intelligence problem on the sideline. He’ s been very productive in the time on the field, and should be very useful this week given his top end speed, great agility, and fantastic hands. Hey Bernard Berrian, two out of three ain’t bad.

The Gustafson Go-Ahead

This is going to be a tight defensive game, with potential from some highlight style plays given the speed of the athletes that will be playing on both sides of the ball at all times. These days, it’s a quarterback’s league. The Bears don’t have a great one, but they have an experienced one. Assuming that both offenses experienced a similar level of torture from two very talented defenses, I’m going with Brian Griese. Stop Adrian Peterson, and send the Vikings home, and that home is the cellar of the NFC north. Bears 13, Vikings 6

Posted: Thursday, October 11, 2007 9:30 AM by TheGoose with 4 comment(s)