With rosters being trimmed to 53 (down from 80) this week, there are quite a few Chicago Bears who will be fighting for their job on Thursday night. Let’s get to the storylines you should watch for as the Browns come into Solider Field for the last preseason game of 2011.
After the awkward release/non-release that happened/didn’t happen on Monday, the former Vikings running back is still in danger of being released. My thoughts are that Lovie will hold Matt Forte and Marion Barber out of tonight’s contest and didn’t want to give up the depth at RB yet. Whatever the case may be, there’s almost no way Taylor stays on this team for long. Look for a possible trade to alleviate the problem.
Crowd of D-FattiesThe competition at defensive tackle for D-Coordinator Rod Marinelli is shaping up to be a close race. Amobi Okoye has made enough big plays this preseason to make the cut, but former third round pick Marcus Harrison is trying to hang on as a sixth tackle. He’ll get plenty of playing time tonight to make his case.
Work for DaneRookie WR Dane Sanzenbacher has impressed all camp and preseason, so it should come to no surprise if he’s already earned a spot on the 53-man roster. That being said, he won’t be sitting on the bench much tonight. I expect and nearly demand Dane to get as much playing time as possible in preparation for the regular season. Martz needs an extended look at Sanzenbacher so he can finalize his plans for the position.
Jay Cutler Benched?Because he better not be playing tonight. No one needs to Jay-Rough my QB in a meaningless fourth preseason game. I’ve got my eye on you Lovie.
Have fun watching the game!
