Into the Lion's Den
The Bears travel to Detroit this Sunday for a battle for first place in the NFC North. Don't laugh, its true. Despite the glaring deficiencies that both teams possess, this really is a battle for first. Lots has changed with the Lions since we last caught up with them. Charles Rogers got suspended, Roy Williams and Kevin Johnson got hurt, and Joey Harrington mercifully got benched. This clearly ain't the same offense that we beat up on five weeks ago. Lets look at the replacements. Rookie Mike Williams is starting at wideout, along with some dude name Scottie Vines. Terrell Owens favorite QB Jeff Garcia is now throwing the ball. He had some nice seasons with the Niners a few years back, but he hasn't done much lately. Still, he's a Godsend for Lions fans. Harrington couldn't lead fish to water.
As for the Bears, they'll essentially be starting the same lineup that they started in week two. The lone exception is Ruben Brown, who's still out with pectoral issues. You could also make the case that we have a different QB starting for the Bears. Kyle Orton appeared to have lost something since that five-interception-effort against Cincy. He doesn't look half as confident as he did in weeks 1 and 2. The Bears have called for a few plays downfield, and some guys have gotten open. But every single time, Orton overthrows them. He just doesn't want to risk throwing a pick. I guess that's ok, as this team wins with rushing and defense. But still, sooner or later you're going to have to lead the team to more than 13 points in a game.
Prediction? My homer streak continues. I'm not picking the Bears every week just for the sake of picking the Bears. I honestly think they can and will win. After all, it's only the Lions. Bears 16, Lions 6. Another TD-free effort by the Defense. Book it.