Welcome to a newly streamlined and revamped Gameday Preview! I figured the prior incarnation was just too filled with stats and useless analysis. From now on the preview will be more akin to extended Opening or Final Drive commentary. This week sees the Bears heading to San Francisco to take on the 49ers on Thursday Night Football. Let’s get to it!
Chicago Bears (4-4) at
San Francisco 49ers (3-5)
49ers tight end Vernon Davis recently made headlines with his bashing of the Bears’ once-vaunted defense. "I think we can destroy their front. The guys up front, I think we can destroy them. “I don't see anything spectacular about their front line. Their linebackers, I think we can handle them pretty well.” Hmm. While insulting as those comments may be, Davis is spot-on. The Bears haven’t pressured much of anybody and their pass coverage has been mediocre at best. They’re even being gouged by the run. Still, Niners QB Alex Smith can hurl interceptions with the worst of them, so I doubt another total domination is in the books.
Chicago’s offense has struggled to move the football as of late, and is has nothing to do with Jay Cutler. The offensive line has committed penalties, given up sacks, and failed to open any running lanes. If the Bears win this game, it’s because Olin Kreutz and the gang decided not to screw up for a day. Primetime hasn’t been kind to the Bears this season, so they need to start fast in order to leave the Bay area with a win. Getting out in front of the Niners will force them to decrease running back Frank Gore’s touches. Since Gore is their best player, I’d say getting the ball out of his hands is a solid idea.
Suggestion to Lovie Smith's staff and players: don't suck this week. And to Tommie Harris: don't punch anyone.
Odds: San Francisco is favored by 3.
Prediction: Who the crap knows? This is one of those games I would avoid like the plague. If you need to bet money, put it towards New Orleans winning by 14 over the Rams. Thanks for reading! Enjoy the game and happy Jay Cutler Day!
