Last week was rough for the Bears, seeing some spotty play from starters and some promising play from younger guys, as the Bears dropped the game 24-17 to the Carolina Panthers.
We're expecting to see starters play most of the first quarter, and hopefully we'll see some increased production by the offense. Personally, I'd be really happy to see no interception on the first play of the game.
Of particular note should be the right sid eof the offensive line--it's anticipated that the Bears will start two rookies in Kyle Long and Jordan Mills, at RG and RT respectively. Whether this is the chance for Mills to prove he should be there, or if the Bears will revert to supposed starter J'Marcus Webb, will be seen. Particularly for Kyle Long--watch for hand placement, feet, and the ability and knowledge to know which guy is his and identify second level defenders that he should become responsible for.
There's a lot of guys to keep track of as we haven't seen the first round of cuts. In the preseason, especially, these flip cards are super duper handy: Check it out from the Bears official site.
Finally, let's hope that Jay re-ignites his rivalry with Rivers by being better than him. Grumpy Phil Rivers face is always fun to see.
Game time: 8pm EST/7PM CST
Location: Soldier Field, Chicago IL
TV: ESPN | WLS-TV (Chicago Local)
Radio: WBBM 780AM | WLEY (Español)
Odds: Bears favored by 6
Last time they played: The Bears won 31-20, Jay Cutler broke his thumb, and then we all tried to convince ourselves that Caleb Hanie could fix it before watching some of the more inept football we've seen in recent years.
SBN Cousin: Bolts From the Blue
Bears injuries: Brandon Marshall, Hip, Probably, Henry Melton, Concussion, Questionable, Earl Bennett, Concussion, Questionable, Kelvin Hayden, hamstring, out, Gabe Miller, Suspension, out
Chargers injuries: Malcom Floyd, Knee, Questionable, Manti Te'o, Foot, Doubtful, Vincent Brown, Hamstring, Questionable, Danario Alexander, Knee, Out for Season
Remaining Preseason games: Bears at Raiders, Aug 23, Browns at Bears, Aug 29
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