The Chicago Bears are losers of four of their last five contests. Their three primetime games this season have all resulted in losses, two of which were especially rich in turnovers. So why am I not convinced the Bears will lay an egg when they play the Eagles this Sunday night? Easy: they're playing at home.
It's true, Jay Cutler has not fared well in night games this season, tossing a whopping 11 interceptions after dark. But his play at home has been steady if nothing else, and the Bears are beyond desperate for a victory. 4-6 would provide an early end to meaningful football in Chicago, but 5-5 would keep them relatively alive for a wildcard berth.
Sunday night Cutler faces a blitz-happy Philadelphia defense with a ball-hawking secondary. Asante Samuel is one of the best cover corners in football, and he'll be all over the field as the Bears have no clear number one receiver. Still, if Eagles corner Sheldon Brown doesn't see action because of his hamstring, it will ease the passing process a bit. Against all those blitzes, it would be critical to establish Matt Forte and the running game to ease the pressure off Cutler, but I have no faith in that line right now. They haven't earned it. Devin Hester and Greg Olsen must continue to be reliable pass-catchers and move the chains consistently for Chicago to have a shot.
On defense, Chicago will not be looking at Brian Westbrook catching passes out of the backfield, as he will sit out with another concussion. Unfortunately, that still leaves LeSean McCoy, DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin and Brent Celek as targets for Donovan McNabb throws. Pressure on McNabb will be paramount or all of those weapons will have time to get open downfield for big plays like they have all season. With safety Kevin Payne doubtful with an injured back, Chicago's secondary will have its hands full.
Special teams will play a huge role Sunday night, as Jackson has punt return duties for Philly. Dave Toub must have his coverage unit prepared or Jackson will surely take one to the house. Hester could try that though, I wouldn't mind.
Suggestion to Lovie Smith's staff and players: Win or miss the playoffs. It's that simple.
Odds: Philly is currently favored by 3. (Seems low to me.)
Prediction: I would LOVE to see a Bears win, but the Eagles' defense is mad and excels at getting pressure on the quarterback. Expect a lot of Jay-roughing in this one. If Chicago can't do the same to McNabb, it'l be another long night for Bear fans. Still, anytime the Bears are at home, they have a fighting chance.
Enjoy the game everyone! Happy Jay Cutler Day!
