This week the Bears hop across the pond to visit London’s Wembley Stadium in the NFL’s annual UK event. Taking on the NFC South-leading Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Bears are still playing catch-up in their own division, but this game is a key component of determining their place in the NFC. Let’s analyze this shiz yo!
(3-3) Chicago Bears at
(4-2) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
As the Bucs still bore the ever-long piss out of me, I’m not going to get into TREMENDOUS detail. Their offense has a few decent pieces, starting with quarterback Josh Freeman. Freeman’s been touted as one of the best up-and-coming quarterbacks in the league, but I’m not sold. I think he’s overrated, but he doesn’t have the supporting cast to prove me wrong. Running back LeGarrette Blount will be inactive today, leaving Earnest Graham with the bulk of the carries, Good lucking running today Tampa! As far as receivers go, tight end Kellen Winslow is probably their most talented, but Arrelious Benn is probably the wide-out to keep your eye on deep. There isn’t a lot of danger from that unit though. Tampa’s offensive line is… okay? But Chicago should be able to get to Freeman on more than one occasion.
As for the up-and-down Mike Martz offense, they shouldn’t have to struggle get a few points on the board. Tampa’s defense is okay, but nothing scares me. Gerald McCoy won’t be at defensive tackle today, so Adrian Clayborn is the most disruptive lineman to watch for coming off the edge. Tampa’s Aquib Talib is a solid cover corner, but he’s all they’ve got. Ronder Barber is like, SUPER old. If the Bear receivers can’t get open today, they never will. Cutler should continue his streak of excellence and shred this Bucs secondary. Matt Forte should have a fun day coming out of the backfield, but I really expect to see Marion Barber pound it at the defensive tackles.
The Odds:Chicago is a 1.5 road favorite.
The Prediction:I’m going balls-in for the win baby. Chicago covers.
How many heart attacks will Joe suffer?None. I have little to no expectations. Unless Jay gets roughed up, I should stave off an ulcer.
Message to the Bears:Show up for those blimey English folk.
Enjoy the game everyone!
Keywords: Chicago Bears, Joe Anello, NFL, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
