Who's lucky??

"The Bears are lucky".  That is what we keep hearing, right?  The media keeps repeating it to the point that it seems like gospel at this point. The touchdown that wasn't (Calvin Johnson), the third string quarterbacks (Detroit, Miami, Minnesota), the injuries (Philly), the penalties (Green Bay), the weather (Minnesota, NY Jets).  Well, I'm here to dispel The "Myth of the Season" with the following facts:

-The Bears beat the Cowboys with Tony Romo

-The Bears beat the Packers with Jermichael Finley, pre-concussed Aaron Rodgers, Nick Barnett, etc.

-The Bears would have beaten the Lions, Dolphins, and Vikings even with their "Hall of Fame" first-string quarterbacks (Matthew Stafford, Chad Henne(!!) and Brett Favre (old version).  In fact, in two of these games the Bears were the ones to knock out the starter, doesn't that count for anything??  Oh, and I will be looking for the experts to be saying how lucky the Eagles now are, since they will play Joe Webb and Steven McGee in their last two games.  Something tells me that I shouldn't hold my breath.

-The Packers are a highly penalized team--that's just WHO THEY ARE.   When they committed 17 penalties against the Bears earlier this year, it was a bit above average for them but not by much.

-Bears "were lucky" that they were able to play the Panthers the one week that Jay Cutler was out.  But I don't here any criticism levied at the Packers for not taking care of business in similar fashion against the similarly terrible Detroit Lions when they were without their starting qb.  A WIN IS A WIN.

-The Bears "haven't played or beaten anybody".  Let's take a deeper dive into that claim.  The Bears have beaten 3 probable/definite playoff teams (Eagles, Packers, Jets).  How do the other NFC playoff teams stack up in this regard (not counting the putrid NFC West)?  

• Packers have beaten 3 (Eagles--without Michael Vick starting by the way, Jets, and Giants)
• Eagles have beaten 4 (Atlanta, Indy, Giants twice)
• Falcons have beaten 3 (New Orleans, Baltimore, Green Bay)
• Saints have beaten 2 (Pittsburgh, Atlanta)
• Giants have beaten 1 (Chicago)

Bottom line--the Chicago Bears have a GOOD team, and have as good of a chance as anyone else to go to the Super Bowl this year.  Don't listen to the media--they just don't like "boring" Lovie Smith and "petulant" Jay Cutler.  Bear down and be proud of your team, they've earned it.

Division Champs!

What a night.  More to come as we prepare for the playoffs but I feel great for the following guys tonight:
-Jay Cutler--first time in the playoffs for him and he stepped up in a big way tonight
-Devin Hester--breaks the record for returns for touchdowns in a career (he almost had a couple before breaking it too--what a "ridiculous" athlete)
-Lovie Smith--just keep winning baby--the media doesn't like the way you do it because it's not flashy but I'll take 10-4 and the North Championship baby!
-Julius Peppers--been playing his butt off all year and made a couple of freakish plays tonight
-Chris Harris--after an early bad missed tackle turned it around in a big way with some huge hits and a big interception

Bears looked dominant tonight--what a way to respond to a bad outing last week.  They control their own destiny for the #2 seed, which means a bye and a home playoff game.  Keep the focus for the Jets and Pack and let's get after it!  Congrats men.

Pictures from yesterday's Bears Practice at Northwestern!

See below for some pics from yesterday's practice at Northwestern's practice field.  While it was cool to watch the Bears practice in my backyard, this story: http://www.chicagobreakingsports.com/2010/12/vikings-kluwe-tcf-stadium-field-unplayable.html has me really concerned about the health of our Bears.  It would really be a shame if there are a rash of injuries that ruin the Bears season tomorrow, but I guess as long as the Vikings maximize their revenue everyone should be happy, right?  What a joke.  They are really running a bush league organization up there in Minnesota, and the Bears players are the ones paying for the league's and the Wilf's greed.  Players like Chris Harris, Charles Tillman and Robbie Gould who have spoken out this week should be applauded.  My hope is that the practice yesterday at NU helped ease their minds a little bit and the Bears are able to use that, along with facing a third-string QB (Joe Webb) to their advantage in hopefully clinching another division title for the beloved tomorrow.  If any of the players get hurt they should sue the league for negligence, though.  Can we fine Roger Goodell $100,000 for leading with his wallet?

It's pretty simple, actually

Bears win this week against the Vikings, who will possibly be starting Patrick Ramsey (who was bagging groceries earlier this week), along with a Packers loss to the Patriots at Foxboro (with the immortal Matt Flynn at the helm) and the Bears win the NFC North.  Nothing else matters--once you get in the tournament, anything can happen.  Further, the Bears are in pretty good position to be the 2nd seed in the NFC, with games left against the Vikings, Jets (who have been slumping) and Packers (who may not have Rodgers) left.  All Bears fans should also be Eagles fans for the rest of the year, as we hold the tiebreaker against the Eagles and not the Giants (which is why we want to be fighting for the 2nd seed with the Eagles and not the Giants).

Keep your eyes on the prize, Bears fans.  I would have loved a win against the Pats too, but the most important thing that happened on Sunday was the good ole Detroit Lions beating the Cheeseheads.  Enjoy this run, we are on the cusp of the PLAYOFFS!!  Any team that has a chip and a chair, has a chance.

So, how do you beat Joe Montana (I mean, Tom Brady) and the Patriots?

As a Hopeful Bears Fan loyal reader, there are a few things you have come to expect from me.  I will post the Bears playoff chances every week.  I'll post the "Sidebar of the Week" about every month.  And I'll pick the Bears to win.  Well, this week is the first week that I am tempted to buck that trend and pick a Bears loss.  This is due to:

• The aforementioned Joe Montanability of Tom Brady, in that he is one of the smartest players in the NFL and knows the Patriots offense COLD.
• The fact that the Patriots have a +14 turnover ratio, and the Bears defense thrives on takeaways.
• Tom Brady, unlike a lot of other quarterbacks, will have the patience to take the 4-8 yards the Bears allow on a regular basis through short passes all the way down the field.
• Bill Belicheck.  Nuff said.

Well, maybe not nuff said.  I can't, in good conscience, pick against the Bears.  I'm sorry, I just can't do it, it would be going against my namesake and my nature, so it ain't gonna happen.  So, here is why they can and will win this game:

• Two factors that have nothing to do with either team--the schedule makers and Old Man Winter.  This is a home game for the Bears and the weather is looking downright evil (15 degrees, 40 mph winds, snow).  I know that both teams come from cold-weather environments, but the Bears team is better suited for a bad-weather game because they rely on their defense and special teams.  Also, the Bears have a better running game right now and have the horses to pound the rock all game with Matt Forte and Chester Taylor.
• Jay Cutler is riding high right now, and the Bears have been mastering their short, quick passes lately.  These will be needed in the aforementioned bad weather as well as if the Patriots decide to blitz.
• Devin Hester almost broke another return for a touchdown last game.
• The Patriots are near the bottom of the league in defense, and have no dominant pass-rushers.  This means that the Patriots will not be able to take full advantage of the Bears weakness (Offensive Line).

Prediction: Bears 20 -- New England 17 (And all the Bears fans at Soldier will feel as if it is 70 degrees outside--with some help from their flasks of course)

If the NFC Playoffs Started Today, Through Week 13. 4 weeks to go...

NFC Seed	Team	Overall	Division	Conference	Next 2
1 (NFC South Champion)	Atlanta Falcons	10--2	3--0	7--1	CAR, SEA
2 (NFC North Champion)	Chicago Bears	9--3	4--0	7--3	NE, MIN
3 (NFC East Champion)	Philadelphia Eagles	8--4	2--1	5--3	DAL, NYG
4 (NFC West Champion)	St. Louis Rams	6--6	2--2	4--5	NO, KC
5 (1st Wild Card)	New Orleans Saints	9--3	3--1	7--2	STL, BAL
6 (2nd Wild Card)	NY Giants	8--4	1--2	5--2	MIN, PHI
7	Green Bay Packers	8--4	3--1	6--3	DET, NE
8	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	7--5	2--3	5--3	WSH, DET
9	Seattle Seahawks	6--6	3--1	5--3	SF, ATL
10	Washington Redskins	5--7	2--2	4--5	TB, DAL
11	Minnesota Vikings	5--7	1--3	4--4	BUF, NYG
12	Dallas Cowboys	4--8	1--2	2--6	PHI, WSH
13	San Francisco 49ers	4--8	2--1	2--7	SEA, SD
14	Arizona Cardinals	3--9	1--4	2--7	DEN, CAR
Eliminated	Detroit Lions
Eliminated	Carolina Panthers

Sidebar of the week

Ron Santo tribute - 2010 - Rare Photos of Ron Santo - Photos - SI.com

Click on the above link to see some photos of Ron Santo, who passed away today of bladder cancer and complications from Diabetes.

Ron Santo came into my life when I was 10 years old. I was playing traveling baseball at the time, and upon being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes one of the parents of a teammate had a connection to Ronnie. Through this connection, Ron was given my name and phone number, and gave me a call at home to provide me with a few words of encouragement. I still remember him asking me about the sports I played, position etc., and saying that as long as I kept my Diabetes in control I could do anything I wanted in this life. Even though it was just a few minutes, I'll remember the conversation for the rest of my life.

A big part of what has really made me believe that I didn't have to be limited by Diabetes (along with my wife and my parents, who give me the strength to never have to feel sorry for myself) was watching Ronnie's positive attitude throughout the years, even after having both legs amputated and other associated health issues. He showed that passion, joy and reaching out to those around you (both at the ballpark and during his "Walks for the Cure") can help you overcome any obstacle. What is surprising to those of us who have Diabetes is that Ronnie was able to play professional baseball without the benefit of a glucometer--basically "driving blind" through all those games, through all those years.

While there are athletes out there (Jay Cutler, for one) who play at the top of their professions with Type 1 Diabetes and show the rest of us that anything is possible while living with this disease, it is people like Ronnie who show us that we are not only physically but spiritually limitless. God Bless you Ronnie. I hear in heaven that even the Cubbies win the World Series every once in a while.

Bears Playoff Chances--Computer and Hopeful Bears Fan Simulated. Plus a quick take on Bears vs. Lions

For years I've been interested, around this time of year, in what the Bears playoff chances were.  In the past, I've used the site www.coolstandings.com, which currently gives the Bears a 43.4% chance of winning their division and a 64.8% chance of winning their division.  This year, I also found a site called makenflplayoffs.com which gives the Bears a 69% chance of winning their division and an 82% chance of making the playoffs (can you guess which site I like more?).  However, I found what is referred to as "the Playoff Machine" on espn.com, and for lack of a better term, it is really cool.  Instead of using complicated formulas/simulations and spitting a number out at you, it allows you to pick every game, for every team, for the remainder of the year and then tells you who will be in the playoffs, and what seed they will be, when the playoffs begin.  The Playoff Machine also allows you to see what will happen if games end the way they are supposed to for the rest of the year (i.e. the team with the better winning percentage wins every game).  I've taken some scenarios, so you don't have to, and listed them below:

• If all games are won by the team with the better winning percentage, the Bears would be the 3rd seed and would host the New York Giants in the first round of the playoffs.
• If all games are won by the home team, the Bears would finish 10-6 and miss the playoffs.
• If all games are won by the team ranked higher in ESPN's Power Rankings, the Bears would be the 3rd seed and would host the Green Bay Packers in the first round of the playoffs.
• If all games were won by the team with the better offensive rank, the Bears would (not surprisingly) not win another game and miss the playoffs.
• If all games were won by the team with the better defensive rank, the Bears would be the third seed and would host the Atlanta Falcons in the first round of the playoffs.
• Finally, if the games go the way I think they will the rest of the way (Bears beat Detroit, Minnesota, NY Jets and lose to New England and Green Bay) and all other games go according to who has the higher winning percentage right now, the Bears will be the 3rd seed and host the Giants.

Check back each week for an update on where the Bears will stand based on these simulations.  I mentioned that I like the Bears this week, my predicted score is 34-17.  Another 3rd string QB for the opposition and the Bears offense is riding high right now.

I also contribute to www.bitterborderbattle.com, for more Bears and NFC North news check that site out as well.  Go Bears!

If the NFC Playoffs Started Today, Through Week 12. 5 weeks to go...

NFC Seed	Team	Overall	Division	Conference	Next 2
1 (NFC South Champion)	Atlanta Falcons	9--2	2--0	6--1	TB, CAR
2 (NFC North Champion)	Chicago Bears	8--3	3--0	6--3	DET, NE
3 (NFC East Champion)	Philadelphia Eagles	7--4	2--1	5--3	HOU, DAL
4 (NFC West Champion)	St. Louis Rams	5--6	1--2	3--5	ARI, NO
5 (1st Wild Card)	New Orleans Saints	8--3	3--1	7--2	CIN, STL
6 (2nd Wild Card-Tie)	NY Giants	7--4	1--2	5--2	WSH, MIN
6 (2nd Wild Card-Tie)	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	7--4	2--2	5--2	ATL, WSH
8	Green Bay Packers	7--4	3--1	5--3	SF, DET
9	Seattle Seahawks	5--6	3--1	4--3	CAR, SF
10	Washington Redskins	5--6	2--1	4--4	NYG, TB
11	Minnesota Vikings	4--7	1--3	4--4	BUF, NYG
12	San Francisco 49ers	4--7	2--1	2--6	GB, SEA
13	Arizona Cardinals	3--8	1--3	2--6	STL, DEN
14	Dallas Cowboys	3--8	1--2	2--6	IND, PHI
15	Detroit Lions	2--9	0--3	2--6	CHI, GB
Eliminated	Carolina Panthers

Legitimacy calls...Bears ready to answer?

It was a LOOONG two weeks.  I'm referring to the timeframe between October 24th and November 7th.  The Bears had just lost  their second game in a row, at home, to an inferior NFC opponent.  Things were looking bleak, as Jay Cutler had just had one of his worst games as a Bear (4 interceptions), Mike Martz seemed clueless in calling a largely disproportionate amount of passing plays, and the offensive line couldn't have blocked my high school defensive line.  The defense and special teams looked ok, but by no means dominant, and many were picking the Bears to lose to a winless (at the time) Buffalo Bills squad to drop all the way back to .500.  Again, it was a long two weeks.  Well, it's been a lot of fun since then, as the Bears have looked impressive in defeating the Bills, Vikings and Dolphins (2 of the three wins occurring on the road) by a combined score of 65-32.  Jay Cutler has been efficient, in part by finding a way to keep defenses honest through the use of the occasional scramble.  Mike Martz has found balance (if you've been a regular reader of this blog you know I've been saying all year that one of the most critical learning curves for this team will be Martz's, and he has responded like a man who is interested in continuing a career in coaching), and the defense and special teams have been amongst the best in the league.  The Offensive line has even improved, with much attributable to a healthy Roberto Garza.

Now the Philadelphia Eagles come to town.  Much like when the Green Bay Packers came to town in Week 3, this game is being described as the measuring stick.  Win and the Bears are for real.  Lose, and the media and fans will still have their doubts.  This game also has big-time wild-card ramifications, as the Bears all ready have 3 conference losses and may not be able to afford a fourth (especially to a team who they will be battling with for a wild-card if the Bears aren't able to keep their division lead on the Cheeseheads).  Here are 4 reasons to fear, as well as hope, going into Sunday's post-Thanksgiving treat:

"Hope is a dangerous thing.  Hope can drive a man insane.":

• 2 words: Mike Vick. Vick has been like Bo Jackson circa Super Techmo Bowl this year, as he's making it look like everyone else is playing in quicksand.  The Bears live for the takeaway, and Vick has 1, yes 1, all year.  Give him time and he'll pick you apart either with his arm or his feet.
• The Eagles speedy wide receivers will pose a big test to the Bears secondary, as speed is not their specialty (outside of Danieal Manning).  Chris Harris especially will have to be a step ahead mentally to avoid being a step slow on the Eagles deep routes.
• The Eagles still have that Jim Johnson mentality on defense--Blitz, Blitz, Blitz.  The Bears will need to continue to play better on the o-line and utilize screen passes while keeping their run/pass balance to slow the Eagles down.  Trent Cole is a beast who will need to be double-teamed.
• Instead of mentioning Desean Jackson returning punts or Asante Samuel against Jay Cutler, I'm going to devote my fourth item to Mike Vick.  Yes, I realize he was also the first item, but he's just that good.  He is perhaps the league MVP and if the Bears want to win they CAN NOT afford to let him go off.

"Hope is a good thing.  Maybe the best of things..."

• In watching Giants/Eagles on Sunday night, it was pointed out on the broadcast that Vick doesn't tend to throw once he rolls to his right (as a lefty this is probably due to him not being as comfortable throwing across his body).  The Bears should line Julius Peppers up on the Right End--where he should then able to pressure Vick and push him out of the pocket towards Lance Briggs, who will be able to contain Vick from his weak-side linebacker spot.  I wouldn't mind seeing Briggs come on some delayed blitzes as well from his spot on the right side of Vick.
• The Bears will have to score more than 24 points to win this game, and I don't see this as an issue because I foresee a big game from Cutler.  The Bears recent run/pass balance has freed up some opportunities down the field for Cutler, often through the use of play-action.  I see a bomb to Devin Hester or Johnny Knox in our future.
• The Bears are 3-0 versus Mike Vick in his career, and even though Vick is playing at a different level right now this is not a coincidence or an aberration.  The Bears team speed on defense has always matched up well against Vick, and the frozen, soggy turf (along with the climate) has never been agreeable for him.  The Bears cover-2 defense also helps prevent the big pass play which has been a Vick staple.  Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs, or even D.J. Moore can serve as a "spy" to help neutralize him on the ground.
• Takeaways are always huge for the Bears, and this game will be no different.  Another item I noticed on Sunday night is that Vick often holds the ball away from his body when he's running, and the Bears are notorious for causing fumbles.  Also, the Bears are very adept on the defensive line (namely Israel Idonije) at getting their hands up to tip passes.  Look for one to fall into the hands of a Bears defender (Moore, I'm looking for you to continue your knack for being in the right place at the right time--don't let me down).

The Verdict: Biggest game of the year.  There will be a playoff atmosphere.  I can't wait, and I hope that all the fans in attendance make Mikey want to run home to Mommy.  Bears 27 Eagles 24.  Hello legitimacy, nice to see you.  Sit a spell.  Take your shoes off.

Bears vs. Dolphins, a Preview...

Just a few short weeks ago, this week's game looked as if it would be a tough one for our Beloved Bears. But if we have learned anything in this crazy NFL season, it is that things CHANGE from one week to the next, and that what you think you know for sure absolutely without a doubt this week may be COMPLETELY wrong after another week's worth of games.  The two items that I feel most strongly about this week are 1) the Bears are playing with a confidence level that we haven't seen all year, and 2) the Dolphins are down to their 3rd string QB.  This will by no means be a walk-over for the Bears, however, and with that in mind here are some items that inspire hope and others that inspire fear:

"Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things":

• Jay Cutler had arguably the best performance of his career on a Thursday night with the Broncos early in his career, throwing 3 touchdown passes in the fourth quarter to lead his team to a win.
• The Dolphins aforementioned injury issues--not only are they missing their top 2 quarterbacks, they are playing with their best offensive lineman (and possibly their best player) Jake Long and their best defensive lineman (Cameron Wake--who has 8.5 sacks) at less than their best as both are playing through the pain.
• The Bears match up well against the Wildcat package based on their team speed on defense and their solid tackling as of late (see below, however, as they are lacking in preparation time).
• The Dolphins fired their Special Teams coach earlier this year after a DISASTROUS performance against the Patriots.  Devin Hester is 1 return TD away from the record, AND is going to his hometown, AND is returning to the scene of the biggest play of his career (returning the opening kickoff of Super Bowl XLI).  Watch out here, Fins....

"Hey Lady, You're Scaring Us!"

• Pisa Tonoisamoa will miss this game with a knee injury, which will hurt but not as much as if the Bears didn't have a capable backup in Nick Roach.
• Jay Cutler had arguably the worst performance of his career last year on a Thursday night, when he threw 5 interceptions against the 49ers in San Francisco.
• Mike Nolan, the Dolphins Defensive Coordinator, is a big believer in the utilization of exotic blitzes. Often he'll bring his secondary and is adept at disguising who is coming after the QB.  The Bears have struggled throughout the year both with blitz identification and pickup.
• The Bears are going on the road for a Thursday night game, which is never easy as they haven't gotten in a lot of preparation for this game (only had one full practice on Tuesday).  This could be especially problematic since the Bears will have to deal with the unique Wildcat offense, which could be utilized extensively due to the Dolphins being on their third string QB.

The Verdict: I look for a somewhat crazy, higher scoring game than normal due to the short week and injuries on the Dolphins side.  Bears 28 Fins 17. Ya Heard Me!

If the NFC Playoffs Started Today, Through Week 10

NFC Seed	Team	Overall	Division	Conference	Next 2
1 (NFC South Champion)	Atlanta Falcons	7--2	2--0	4--1	STL, GB
2 (NFC East Champion)	NY Giants	6--3	1--1	5--1	PHI, JAX
3 (NFC North Champion)	Chicago Bears	6--3	3--0	5--3	MIA, PHI
4 (NFC West Champion)	Seattle Seahawks	5--4	3--1	4--2	NO, KC
5 (1st Wild Card)	New Orleans Saints	6--3	3--1	5--2	SEA, DAL
6 (2nd Wild Card-Tie)	Green Bay Packers	6--3	2--1	4--2	MIN, ATL
6 (2nd Wild Card-Tie)	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	6--3	2--2	4--2	SF, BAL
8	Philadelphia Eagles	6--3	1--1	4--2	NYG, CHI
9	St. Louis Rams	4--5	1--2	3--4	ATL, DEN
10	Washington Redskins	4--5	2--1	3--4	TEN, MIN
11	Minnesota Vikings	3--6	1--2	3--3	GB, WAS
12	Arizona Cardinals	3--6	1--3	2--5	KC, SF
13	San Francisco 49ers	3--6	1--2	1--5	TB, ARI
14	Detroit Lions	2--7	1--3	2--5	DAL, NE
15	Dallas Cowboys	2--7	1--2	1--5	DET, NO
16	Carolina Panthers	1--8	0--4	1--7	BAL, CLE

Hope rides again!

All year, we've been waiting for that dominant Bears performance.  Well Bears fans, I think we just witnessed it.  And not only that, it could be the precursor for an improved Bears team to make their playoff run with 7 games remaining in the season.  A few observations from a Happy, Hopeful Bears Fan:

• I've written on this blog in the past that a big key to the Bears success this year will be the evolution of Mike Martz, both in his understanding of the personnel on this team and the ability of Jay Cutler to grasp it.  The bye week seems to have been a turning point of sorts, and the last two weeks Martz has learned that a balance of runs/passes is needed, and Cutler has learned that if he can limit his mistakes (utilize checkdowns, scramble when it is available, throw the ball away) this team will win with their dominant defense and special teams.
• Devin Hester was the kick returner today, and he made an impact.  I don't fault the Bears for trying Hester as their #1 receiver, but I think they have found his niche.  Namely, returner and part-time receiver.  Knox is your #1, Bennett your #2, Hester #3 and Aromashadu #4 (possibly with more playing time to come).  Rashied Davis also had an impact today.  
• I wouldn't be surprised to see the Bears continue to utilize more 2-3 tight end sets.  This would give Olsen the opportunity to be a receiver first and a blocker second, and would help out the improving Offensive Line.
• Balance on offense leads directly to improved third down percentage.  The Bears were over 50% in this department today, and a big part of the reason why can be attributed to Cutler having more time to make things happen with his feet, allowing his receivers to find the soft spots in zone coverage.
• Excellent tackling today.  Gold star to Lance Briggs who had a few nice open field tackles and the Vikings big playmakers (Peterson, Harvin).

Check back all week for updates on where the Bears stand in the race for the tournament, news and predictions.  It's a short week, gear up for Thursday Bears fans!!

Time to Shake the Lake Bears Fans!

I was planning on giving an X's and O's analysis for what the Bears need to do to win this game against the Vikings (ahh, what the heck--one fact.  Julius Peppers OWNED Bryant McKinnie last year, and I don't see why that can't be repeated this year).  But instead, I want to talk about what we, as true Bears fans, can do to help the Bears beat the Vikings in what may be THE game of the year, both in importance and quality.  These RIVALRY games make me want to be out there on the field cracking some shoulder pads, so forgive me if I'm analyzing more here with my heart than I am with my head.

The Bears are 3-1 on the road this year, which is a record to be proud of according to conventional NFL wisdom.  However, they are only 2-2 at Soldier Field, which is not so good.  There has been a lot of negativity swirling the Bears this year, despite their winning record and the fact that a victory would put them in first place (via tiebreaker) with only 7 games remaining in the season.  Now I can understand all the negativity from the media, as they are supposed to be objective and everyone knows that a story leading with "Everything is Great!" doesn't sell newspapers.  What I can't understand is all the negativity from Bears fans this year.  The reason I don't understand it is I don't know what it brings you, as a fan, to "hate on" your team, especially when they are 5-3 and in contention for the tournament.

We only get 1 season of 16 Sundays, and once it is over we can then focus on what needs to be done to make the team better for next year.  But during the year, as fans, we have to root for the team we've been dealt.  And for this 1 game, right here, we all need to put that negativity, sarcasm, and cynicism behind us and support the team with all that we have.  It has been shown in this series that homefield advantage is huge, as in the past Bears teams with less talent than the Vikings have been able to pull out close victories at home due in large part to what we bring to the table.  So let me hear you on Sunday. Let's Go Bears.  Let's Go Bears!  Let's Go Bears!!

Bears 24 Vikings 20

We'll take it (eight) games at a time...

The great thing about being a fan is that, unlike coaches and players, we don't have to "take it one game at a time".  We can look ahead, speculate, and yes, hope.  The Bears stand at 5-3 at the midpoint of the season, and seeing as how 10-6 typically guarantees a playoff spot (and I don't see that being any different this year in a weeeeeeeak NFC), I've laid out below the most realistic shot at the Bears going 5-3 the rest of the way in order to get there:

• Remaining games (8):
• Minnesota (W)--Need to take care of business at home against the Vikings, where it is always a battle between these two squads.  Many of the Vikings "skill" position players are somewhat banged up (Favre, Harvin, Rice) but the one who always hurts the Bears most is Adrian Peterson.  If the Bears can find a way to contain Peterson and catch 1-2 of the balls you know Brett Favre will throw to the wrong color jersey, the Bears should have a fighting chance.  Won't be easy, though (I'll have a more detailed preview of this game tomorrow).
• @Miami (W)--This game isn't as tough as it looked earlier this season.  The Dolphins are in a bit of turmoil, as is evidenced by the benching of their starting quarterback (Chad Pennington has replaced Chad Henne).  Bears could come out with the win if they make a big play or two on special teams (see Miami vs. New England game from earlier this year) and gear up to stop Miami's running game.
• Philadelphia (W)--Bears have always matched up well against Vick with their defense built for speed.  This will be the game they have to win to make up for the loss to the Redskins earlier this year (for conference tiebreaker purposes).  With the Packers starting to put it together this game will be critical if the Bears want to get into the tournament with a wild card as opposed to winning their division.
• @Detroit (W)--Need to have it as the last 4 games are rough.  Cutler has played pretty well against the Lions in his time with the Bears thus far.  Matthew Stafford being out for the year doesn't hurt.  They'll have to find a way to block the BEAST Ndamakung Suh though.
• New England (L)--Tom Brady, Wes Welker and Bill Belichek are too much to handle--even at home.  This team is just too well-coached, and will outmaneuver the Bears.  Until proven otherwise, I can't pick a Lovie Smith-coached team to beat a Bill Belichek-coached team.   
• @Minnesota (L)--The "Humpdome" has been a House of Horrors for the Bears.  In Favre's final game against the beloved (if he isn't injured or suspended) he shows us Bears fans one more time why we will all uncork the Champagne when he (finally) retires.  Sidney Rice should be at full strength by this game as well.
• New York Jets (W)--Call me crazy, but there is always one AFC team a year that the Bears aren't supposed to beat but end up beating (especially at home).  The Jets may have clinched by now as well.  The Bears will have to grind one out but I think they can--and I wouldn't rule out a few picks from the Sanchize. The Jets performance the last couple of weeks against the Packers and Lions reinforces my belief in this one.
• @Green Bay (L)--This could be for the division, and I think the Packers will be ready at home for some payback.  You never know, if things go according to plan the Bears and Packers might be meeting again in the Wild Card round.  Would be quite the scene.

What do you all think--do the Bears have a shot? 

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If the NFC Playoffs Started Today, Through Week 9. 8 weeks to go...

NFC Seed	Team	Overall	Division	Conference	Next 2
1 (NFC East Champion)	NY Giants	6--2	1--0	5--0	DAL, PHI
2 (NFC South Champion)	Atlanta Falcons	6--2	2--0	4--1	BAL, STL
3 (NFC North Champion)	Green Bay Packers	6--3	2--1	4--2	BYE, MIN
4 (NFC West Champion)	St. Louis Rams	4--4	1--1	3--3	SF, ATL
5 (1st Wild Card)	New Orleans Saints	6--3	3--1	5--2	BYE, SEA
6 (2nd Wild Card-Tie)	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	5--3	1--2	3--2	CAR, SF
6 (2nd Wild Card-Tie)	Philadelphia Eagles	5--3	0--1	3--2	WSH, NYG
8	Chicago Bears	5--3	2--0	4--3	MIN, MIA
9	Seattle Seahawks	4--4	2--1	3--2	ARI, NO
10	Washington Redskins	4--4	2--0	3--3	PHI, TEN
11	Minnesota Vikings	3--5	1--1	3--2	CHI, GB
12	Arizona Cardinals	3--5	1--1	2--4	SEA, KC
13	Detroit Lions	2--6	0--3	2--5	BUF, DAL
14	San Francisco 49ers	2--6	0--1	0--5	STL, TB
15	Carolina Panthers	1--7	0--3	1--6	TB, BAL
16	Dallas Cowboys	1--7	0--2	0--5	NYG, DET

Bears set to play Jim Kelly, Thurman Thomas, Bruce Smith and the Bills on Sunday...

The Buffalo Bills are 0-7. Let me repeat that, 0-7.  Yet, to hear the "experts" call it, they are primed for a Super Bowl run.  Albeit with their history it would be another losing one.  This notion is based on the Bills taking the Ravens and Chiefs to overtime.  The Ravens were FLAT in that game (kind of like the Bears were in their loss against the Seahawks) and the Chiefs aren't that good.  Period.  Everyone is down on the Bears, which seems to be the time when they step up and prove everybody wrong.  This is that time.  The Bears will be ready for this game.  Off a bye and two disappointing losses, they will NOT be flat for this game.  The Bears flat out-talent the Bills.  The only area that concerns me are the Bills receivers with Zach Bowman out.  But I see the Bears combating that concern with a big game from their Defensive Line (namely Julius Peppers).  Jay Cutler will bounce back--don't discount the return of a healthy Roberto Garza next to an improving Jamarcus Webb off of a bye week.  Bears 27 Bills 13.  Book it.

NFC Playoff Race, through Week 8...

NFC Seed	Team	Overall Record	Division	Conference	Next 3
1 (NFC East Champion)	NY Giants	5--2	1--0	4--0	SEA, DAL, PHI
2 (NFC South Champion)	Atlanta Falcons	5--2	1--0	3--1	TB, BAL, STL
3 (NFC North Champion)	Green Bay Packers	5--3	2--1	3--2	DAL, BYE, MIN
4 (NFC West Champion)	Seattle Seahawks	4--3	2--1	3--1	NYG, ARI, NO
5 (1st Wild Card)	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	5--2	1--1	3--1	ATL, CAR, SF
6 (2nd Wild Card)	New Orleans Saints	5--3	2--1	4--2	CAR, BYE, SEA
7	Philadelphia Eagles	4--3	0--1	3--2	IND, WSH, NYG
8	Chicago Bears	4--3	2--0	4--3	BUF, MIN, MIA
9	Washington Redskins	4--4	2--0	3--3	BYE, PHI, TEN
10	St. Louis Rams	4--4	1--1	3--3	BYE, SF, ATL
11	Arizona Cardinals	3--4	1--1	2--3	MIN, SEA, KC
12	Minnesota Vikings	2--5	1--1	2--2	ARI, CHI, GB
13	Detroit Lions	2--5	0--3	2--5	NYJ, BUF, DAL
14	San Francisco 49ers	2--6	0--1	0--5	BYE, STL, TB
15	Carolina Panthers	1--6	0--2	1--5	NO, TB, BAL
16	Dallas Cowboys	1--6	0--2	0--4	GB, NYG, DET

Sidebar of the week: Moss to the Bears...would he be a good fit?

It appears that Randy Moss will be waived by the Minnesota Vikings in a move that I don't quite understand.  The Vikings and Brad Childress knew what they were getting when they traded a 3rd Round pick to acquire Moss--a talented, big-play, game-changing malcontent who doesn't give maximum effort on every play.  And while Moss hasn't necessarily torn it up for the Vikings, he has made their team better by commanding double-teams and opening up the field for the Vikings best playmakers--Adrian Peterson and Percy Harvin.  That being said, I vote a resounding NO to the Bears looking to pick up Moss, and here is why:

• He isn't a good fit in Mike Martz's offense.  Jay Cutler has been learning Martz's offense these first 7 games, and what is starting to sink in (especially after last game's 4-interception performance against the Redskins) is that it is a timing and precision offense, not a "throw it up and go-get-it offense".  Adding Moss would not add to Cutler's education in Martz's offense.
• I can't take a guy who can't give maximum effort on every play, and I'm just a fan.  I don't know how teammates and coaches can see that and live with it.
• Moss seems to only want to play with Hall-of-Fame type quarterbacks--Cutler is not in that class (yet).  Moss would get frustrated with a quarterback as inconsistent as Cutler is right now with his accuracy.

If I had to guess, I would say that Moss will end up with the Patriots, Jets, Redskins, or Chiefs.  Quite a story--makes Jerry Angelo look like a genius in comparison.  What do you all think?

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Why I'm a Bears fan, and what they need to do the rest of the way...

The bye week gives every team, and for that matter, every fan, time to stop for a moment and reflect.  After a disappointing loss to the Redskins on Sunday, I thought it was a good time to remind myself why I am (and always will be) a fan of the Chicago Bears.  Hopefully some of these will ring true and prompt you to come up with your own reasons as we prepare for the rest of this exciting NFL season:

• I started reading the Chicago Tribune sports page when I was about 4, and immediately gravitated to Bears news (Bob Verdi, Bernie Lincicome, and Don Pierson were some of my favorites)
• My dad (aka Jim McMahon) used to throw me (aka Willie Gault) touchdown passes in the driveway and/or backyard
• I received a Bears football with all of the 1990 division-winning Bears signatures on it shortly after learning I had type-1 Diabetes (a gift from my parents)
• Listening to former Bears guard Jay Leewenburg (who also had type-1 Diabetes) speak at Evanston Hospital and tell me how I could accomplish anything I wanted, even play pro football someday
• Scouting the Bears (as a fan) at Bourbonnais--feeling that NFL fever start to well-up in the heat of August
• Nothing on television equals the experience of watching your team play.  I was literally SCREAMING at the television on Sunday for Lovie to throw his challenge flag on the Cutler fumble at the goalline.  What else on tv can cause such a visceral reaction?
• Talking to my brother (who lives 3 hours from me) at least 3 times every Sunday on the phone to dissect the Bears game
• The fact that it led me to fantasy football, which is just an awesome time when you are a competitive person
• The fact that my wife watches every game with me and gets into it almost as much as I do--we even have our own "Bear Down" touchdown dance.  She also was able to wrangle me a personalized Brian Urlacher autographed picture--sweet.
• The fact that this is such a "holiday" sport--nothing compliments Thanksgiving like football (and I like my Bears Christmas ornaments too).
• Moments like the one earlier this year at the Seahawks game at Soldier Field, in which a member of the armed forces finally got his due with a standing ovation.  I could see the tears in his eyes from the 400-level.  
• Jet fly-overs at the stadium
• The playoff games in 2006--after Robbie Gould hit his 48 yarder in overtime I was a part of a 60,000-strong group hug.  And the Saints game was pure magic and catharsis--it even snowed at the end as Urlacher held the George Halas trophy aloft.
• Mainly, I'm a fan for the thrill of the chase for the championship.  I realize that every year the Bears won't win it all--but what I ask for is that they are competitive to the end, so that I can get full enjoyment out of the 16 regular season games and beyond.  Here is how I'm hopeful that the Bears can get there this year:
• Remaining games (9): 
• @Buffalo (W)--Plain and simple, a must win.  Won't be as easy as it looked a few weeks ago though as the Bills offense is clicking with Ryan Fitzpatrick at the helm.
• Minnesota (W)--Need to take care of business at home against the Vikings, who have been underwhelming this year and have an aching Favre who may not even play (injury or may possible suspension)
• @Miami (L)--Tough game on the road against a rising Miami team.  Bears could come out with the win if they make a big play or two on special teams (see Miami vs. New England game from earlier this year)
• Philadelphia (W)--Bears have always matched up well against Vick.  This will be the game they have to win to make up for the loss to the Redskins.
• @Detroit (W)--Need to have it as the last 4 games are rough.  Cutler has played pretty well against the Lions in his time with the Bears thus far.
• New England (L)--Tom Brady and Bill Belichek are too much to handle--even at home.  This team is just too smart and knows how to win.  The Bears have not been able to cash in on their opportunities thus far.  This is winnable (being at home helps) but I can't call it a win at this point 
• @Minnesota (W)--A game the Bears will have to have--and I think the Vikings may be out of it by this point the way they are going.  Won't be easy but the Bears will pull out their first sweep of the Vikings in quite some time with a few big defensive plays and just enough from the offense. 
• New York Jets (W)--Call me crazy, but there is always one AFC team a year that the Bears aren't supposed to beat but end up beating (especially at home).  The Jets may have clinched by now as well.  The Bears will have to grind one out but I think they can--and I wouldn't rule out a few picks from the Sanchize. 
• @Green Bay (L)--This could be for the division, and I think the Packers will be ready at home for some payback.  If all goes as indicated above the Bears would probably have a spot clinched and might not have as much to play for as the Pack do.

This is what the Bears will have to do to make the tournament (10-6 will GUARANTEE a playoff spot in the weak NFC this year).  The Hopeful Bears Fan thinks it can be done, and I hope you do too.  If you don't at least agree that there is a chance, then I hope you are at least getting something out of being a fan and watching the games this year (maybe you have your own list and it doesn't include "the thrill of the chase for the championship").  To each their own. 

I'll be back early next week with an update on the playoff chase and a more in depth preview of Bears vs. Bills.  Enjoy your time off my Bears brethren and come back refreshed and ready to go on November 7th!

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Bears' Inactives/Injury Update for today's game...

From Larry Mayer of Chicagobears.com:
"After missing last Sunday's loss to the Seahawks, weakside linebacker Lance Briggs will return to the starting lineup today. Guard Roberto Garza (knee), cornerback Zackary Bowman (foot) and safety Major Wright (hamstring) will miss the game with injuries, however. Other inactives for the Bears are running back Kahlil Bell, tight end Desmond Clark, defensive end Corey Wootton and defensive tackle Marcus Harrison."

Interesting to see Clark inactive again.  Look for Greg Olsen to play a bigger role in the passing game today as he has been invisible the last two weeks.

Not that anyone cares, but I'm putting my money where my mouth is and starting Johnny Knox on my fantasy team today and sitting Ryan Torain---GO BEARS!!!!

Bears vs. Redskins, a Preview...

I've heard enough negativity about the Bears offensive line and coaching staff this week (and all season) to last a lifetime here in Chicago.  I'm starting to think that the reason for all the negativity is it doesn't require analysis or thought--it is very easy and intellectually lazy to say "The Bears suck" or "The Bears Offensive Line sucks" but not as easy to say "The Bears will win/lose against the Redskins and here is why" or "The Bears are the best/worst team in their division and here is why".  So here is why the Hopeful Bears Fan sees that negativity as misguided, and how the Bears will begin to win back their fans this week (by the way, this is the first time in my life I've heard of a first place team having to "win back their fans" but so it goes in the Windy City):

1. The Chicago Bears offensive education of Mike Martz is now complete.  Martz has proven that he can adjust based on the strengths and weaknesses of both his team and the opponent (see Carolina game).  Last week, his gameplan revolved around the pass because that was the weakness of his opponent (Seattle was ranked near the bottom of the league against the pass going into week 6).  Where he faltered was in two areas: hubris and aggressiveness.  Hubris in that he gave too much credit to his offensive line (coming off of their decent performance against Carolina) and aggressiveness in that his gameplan was to get an early lead and pile on from there.  This week, he will scale back the passing game (though not too much because the Redskins are also near the bottom of the league against the pass) and create more balance.  This will keep the Redskins pass rush in check and Cutler on his feet.  It will also increase the offensive line's confidence and lead to their best performance of the year.
2. The Bears defense was FLAT last week, for the first time all year.  Part of that may have been due to the loss of one of their leaders, Lance Briggs, but it was mainly due to good old-fashioned overconfidence.  The Bears defense will have their sense of urgency renewed this week, and the Redskins offense will pay the price.
3. I am NOT impressed by Ryan Torain, RB of the Redskins.  Sure, he thrived last week against the Colts, and he is operating in a Mike Shanahan offense that has been very kind to running backs in the past.  But he was picked up off the scrap heap, and to me he looks slow and doesn't do anything particularly well.  The Bears defense gave up a couple of touchdowns to Seahawks running backs last week, but they still have been one of the best against the run.  Look for a bounce back game against this running game.  The Redskins passing game is nothing to write home about either, especially with Chris Cooley coming off a concussion last week.
4. Julius Peppers was shut down last week.  If you've watched Peppers this year, you know he has been a force in every other game.  I'll take the odds on Peppers being a force again this week, especially against a quarterback like McNabb who historically likes to hold onto the ball long to make something happen.  He is quick and athletic, but Peppers is better and younger and will take away that part of McNabb's game.
5. The relative balance (look for a 65-35 or 60-40 pass/run split this week) will benefit Greg Olsen and Johnny Knox.  Look for both to get in the endzone this week.

Updated prediction: Bears 27 Redskins 17  

If the NFC Playoffs Started Today, Through Week 6. 11 weeks to go...

NFC Seed	Team	Overall Record	Division	Conference	Next 3
1 (NFC East Champion)	NY Giants	4--2	0--0	3--0	DAL, BYE, SEA
2 (NFC South Champion)	Atlanta Falcons	4--2	1--0	3--1	CIN, BYE, TB
3 (NFC North Champion)	Chicago Bears	4--2	2--0	4--2	WSH, BYE, BUF
4 (NFC West Champion)	Arizona Cardinals	3--2	1--0	2--1	SEA, TB, MIN
5 (1st Wild Card)	Philadelphia Eagles	4--2	0--1	3--2	TEN, BYE, IND
6 (2nd Wild Card)	Seattle Seahawks	3--2	1--1	2--1	ARI, OAK, NYG
7	New Orleans Saints	3--2	1--1	3--2	CLE, PIT, CAR
8	Green Bay Packers	3--2	1--1	2--2	MIN, NYJ, DAL
9	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	3--2	1--1	1--1	STL, ARI, ATL
10	Washington Redskins	3--3	2--0	3--1	CHI, DET, BYE
11	St. Louis Rams	3--3	1--1	2--2	TB, CAR, BYE
12	Minnesota Vikings	2--3	1--0	2--1	GB, NE, ARI
13	Dallas Cowboys	1--4	0--1	0--3	NYG, JAX, GB
14	Detroit Lions	1--5	0--3	1--5	WSH, NYJ, BUF
15	San Francisco 49ers	1--5	0--1	0--4	CAR, DEN, BYE
16	Carolina Panthers	0--5	0--2	0--4	SF, STL, NO

Still hopeful!

I was at the game yesterday with my future brother-in-law, who had an extra ticket and was kind enough to bring me along.  Beautiful Chicago fall day, excellent seats (400 section--right on the 50 yard line) that offered a perfect perspective on the proceedings.  So I had the weather, seats and great company--now the Bears just had to do their part, right?  Well, the game started out promisingly, as the Bears went 80 yards in 4 plays to take the early 7-0 lead.  Things spiraled in the opposite direction pretty quickly, however, as the Seahawks took their next possession down the field to respond for a quick score of their own.  Again, there are plenty of places you can go online or elsewhere for a summary of the game and/or to read about how the sky is falling and the Bears won't win another game for the rest of the season.  But if you are interested in the opposite (and more positive/rational) perspective, read on my frents:

• The Bears are 4-2, and in first place in the NFC North all by themselves.  If the season ended today, the Bears would be in the tournament.  Period. (Also, the Packers kind of gave us a bit of a "Get out of jail free card" by losing at home to Miami--which we are happy to cash in).
• The Bears have two winnable games (Home against Washington, at Buffalo) sandwiching a bye week.  These are coming at the perfect time, as I'm hopeful that today's game completed an education that the Bears coaching staff, and particularly Mike Martz, needed to attain.  This education started with the Giants loss, and continued last week with the win at Carolina.  What Martz should have learned from these three games is as follows: :
• Running the ball is not optional.  Running the ball, as the Bears did with such success last week at Carolina, is critical in keeping the defense honest, slowing down the pass rush, improving the confidence and productivity of the offensive line and keeping Cutler in one piece.  The Bears have the horses in their running game to succeed, they just have to commit to it and strive for more balance in their offense.  
• Minimize "pass only" situations to keep opposing defenses honest.  It has been evident they don't yet have the experience in this offense to master the art of the "hot read" and when I can predict that the Bears are going to pass most of the time sitting in the 400 section, defenses are definitely "licking their chops" as the Seahawks Lawyer Milloy put it yesterday after the game.
• Keep a running back in the backfield.  This will give Cutler a dump-off to help limit sacks and/or an extra blocker.
• Utilize the shotgun.  I know this is a cliche for Bears fans over the years, but with the inexperience in this offense the shotgun would allow Cutler to get a better view of potential blitzers and distribute accordingly.
• Don't lose the creativity.  The Bears ran a sweet play in the first quarter, and it provided evidence of the potential that this offense has.  Hester shifted to the backfield pre-snap, and ran out into the right flat.  Cutler faked a wide receiver screen to his side and then threw back to his left to Chester Taylor for a screen to the other side.  Taylor, if not for an outstanding open field tackle by one of the Seahawks cornerbacks, would have gone all the way. 
• Pride goeth before the fall. It is now evident that the best way to win is to support the defense and special teams with the offense.  This means staying on the field and playing the field position game.  Mike Martz will need to swallow his ego, much like he did last week in Carolina, and grind out some wins.  Later in the season, this should open up the passing game again, but what is required now are old fashioned grind-em-outs, as the Offensive Line, QB, and receivers are not on the same page enough to pass the ball 80% of the time and expect come out with wins.
• Passion is crucial.  The most disappointing aspect of yesterday's game is that the Bears were flat (Brian Urlacher admitted as much after the game).  I expect a good week of practice and a sharp team next week, as they have given themselves a sense of urgency for the Redskins game that might not have been there had they won yesterday.  Getting Lance Briggs back won't hurt matters either.
• One more note on yesterday at Soldier.  There was a moving standing ovation for one of our fine serviceman and his wife (in an Urlacher jersey) before the kickoff.  Another display of how sports can bring us together.  We'll get em next week, don't worry my Bears brethren!!

Early Bears vs. Redskins Prediction: Bears 24 Redskins 16

Tomorrow, live from Soldier....

I'll be at Soldier Field tomorrow for Bears vs. Seahawks!  Check back tomorrow night for my reaction and inside information that can come only from the "live" experience.  Hoping to be close enough to hear Matt Hasselbeck's bones crunch after one of Julius Peppers' many quarterback hits.

I'm also a contributor on www.bitterborderbattle.com--check it out for more Bears and NFC North information.

Bears vs. Seahawks, a Preview...

First of all, let me say that I REALLY feel good about this game.  Let's say 35-14 good.  I feel there is a confluence of events that will make Bears fans very happy come about 3:00 CST on Sunday, and here they are, in no particular order:

• Call me crazy, but I like the offensive line as currently constituted.  By running the ball with a good amount of success last week, they proved to themselves and their coaching staff that they can be a balanced offensive squad.  With the exception of Edwin Williams at Right Guard (who, I must admit, I know nothing about other than he is a big physical presence and a castoff from the Redskins), the Bears have some young talent that should be able to build on last week's performance. Running the ball with effectiveness should also assist in their pass blocking, as teams will have to account for both now that the Bears have put some successful runs on film for the rest of the NFL to see.  The Seahawks front 4 is NOT the Giants front 4--look for the Bears to continue to make strides in this area.
• The Bears seem to have finally found a role for Chester Taylor.  One of the Bears biggest shortcomings this year has been converting on 3rd and 1, and Taylor has proven that he has the savvy to get that yard more often than Matt Forte, who is a bit more of a finesse runner.  Having this 1-2 punch in place will allow the Bears to sustain drives and keep the strength of their team (defense) off the field and fresh.
• Jay Cutler and Johnny Knox are due for a breakout game.  Knox, who has not scored this season, is due for a big game this week as the Seahawks have not been stout against the pass.  I have an inkling that Cutler (who did not like sitting out last week at all) will be looking for the big play early and often this week to reestablish himself as the MVP candidate he was through the first 3 weeks of the season.  He will look to his most trusted deep threat to make this happen.  (Fantasy football tip: Start Knox this week).
• The Seahawks have substandard receivers.  The one area that seems to have hurt the Bears somewhat this year on the defensive side of the ball are when big-play receivers (Calvin Johnson, Miles Austin and Greg Jennings to name a few) are allowed to be matched up 1-1 with the smaller and less talented Bears cornerbacks.  However, when the Bears have the ability to go man-to-man on outside receivers and bring Chris Harris (in essence a 4th linebacker) into the box they have been allowing nothing on the ground and forcing teams to be one-dimensional.  This leads to....  
• Julius Peppers continuing his dominance.  Look for Peppers to break through and get to Matt Hasselbeck.  He has been very close in recent weeks and Hasselbeck has a tendency to hang on to the ball too long.
• Playmakers.  Winning in the NFL comes down to playmakers.  The Bears were able to pull out a victory last year in Seattle due in large part to the fact that Cutler was the best player on the field.  This year, the following Bears are light years ahead of their Seahawk counterparts in this area: Cutler, Peppers, Forte, Devin Hester (punt returns), Urlacher, Briggs, Greg Olsen, Knox and Pisa Tinoisamoa.  The Seahawsks have an aging Hasselbeck, Golden Tate, a second round rookie from Notre Dame, and Marshawn Lynch, a castoff from Buffalo.  I'll take my chances in this category with the home team.

Bears fans are looking for a dominant win in order to really start believing in this team and get off the flawed argument that their 4-1 start has been in large part due to luck.  They'll get it on Sunday.  Enjoy, my Bears brethren.  

For more Bears news/opinion and NFC North information, check out www.bitterborderbattle.com, where I am also a contributor.

If the NFC Playoffs Started Today, Through Week 5. 12 weeks to go...

NFC Seed	Team	Overall Record	Division Record	Conference Record
1 (NFC South Champion)	Atlanta Falcons	4--1	1--0	3--0
2 (NFC North Champion)	Chicago Bears	4--1	2--0	4--1
3 (NFC East Champion)	Washington Redskins	3--2	2--0	3--1
4 (NFC West Champion)	Arizona Cardinals	3--2	1--0	2--1
5 (1st Wild Card)	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	3--1	1--0	1--0
6 (2nd Wild Card)	NY Giants	3--2	0--0	2--0
7	New Orleans Saints	3--2	1--1	3--2
8	Green Bay Packers	3--2	1--1	2--2
9	Philadelphia Eagles	3--2	0--1	2--2
10	Seattle Seahawks	2--2	1--1	1--1
11	St. Louis Rams	2--3	1--1	2--2
12	Minnesota Vikings	1--3	1--0	1--1
13	Dallas Cowboys	1--3	0--1	0--2
14	Detroit Lions	1--4	0--3	1--4
15	San Francisco 49ers	0--5	0--1	0--4
16	Carolina Panthers	0--5	0--2	0--4