Joe's 2011 Preseason Gameday Preview: Bears at Giants

After the sack-fest that ensued against the Bills last weekend, Lovie Smith’s Chicago Bears head to the Meadowlands, the site of last year’s memorable sack bonanza. We’re certainly going to see the starters in action for a longer stretch, but we shouldn’t see the heavy-hitters go late into the second quarter. That being said, here are the storylines to watch in game two of the Bears’ preseason schedule.

Yeah, pretty much pencil this in as the top concern each week. Even with Osi Umenyiora out with a knee injury, these Giants can and will get to the quarterback. I’d love to see Chris Spencer get a little work with the first teamers, but I doubt that’s going to happen. Still, the starting five should see as much action as last week when they went an entire half. Keep an eye on J’Marcus Webb at left tackle as he faces up with sack-freak Jason Pierre-Paul.

Veteran corners Tim Jennings and Zack Bowman have been entrenched in a battle for the second corner slot behind Charles Tillman. With an open competition in his midst, Smith will need to see some stand-out plays to get a clear-cut winner. Otherwise we’ll be treated with an endless amount of swapping as the season progresses. Bowman might be more of a ball-hawk when he’s healthy, but in my opinion, Jennings is the better tackler, a necessity in the cover-two scheme. Pay close attention Jennings tonight, as Bowman sits out with yet another injury. Winner by default?

First down!
Yeah… so with Roy Williams getting on the field tonight, you’ll finally get to see the Bears’ big new receiver in action. A star in the Martz offense in 2006, Williams had three lackluster seasons in Dallas. Back with Martz, he’ll be looking to make a splashy catch or two tonight in New York. And god help him if he makes that freaking first down sign… I may explode in tweet form.

Stay tuned to @JoeAnello on Twitter for in-game commentary. After the game wraps up, check back for a recap.