Week 4 Preview: Bears (1-2) In Tough Against Philly

The Bears continue their homestand this week against the 2-1 Philadelphia Eagles, a team coming off a stingy win against the Pittsburgh Steelers.  The Eagles are a little banged up heading into this week, with starting QB listes as questionable with a chest injury, while standout RB Brian Westbrook is questionable as well with an ankle injury, not participating in any practices this week.  Hopefully, the Bears can capitalize on these weaknesses, and turn around a once promising season.  The Bears will need to be disciplined, and not take any silly penalties as we saw last week against Tampa Bay.

Keys to Victory

1. Give The Ball To Brandon:  Signed this past off-season, Brandon Lloyd has stood out the past two wees, resurrecting a career that many thought was over.  As bad as Kyle Orton has been, Lloyd has been a consistent target, not dropping balls like TE Greg Olsen has in the past.  Hopefully Lloyd continues his strong play this week (finding the endzone would be nice too).

2. Orton Plays To Keep His Job:  Kyle Orton proved in Week 1 he could play with the best, but unfortunately he has not been the same form since then.  If he’s looking to keep his job this season, I suggest he start throwing the ball better, and not repeat last week’s performance of 2 interceptions.  The running game is no longer an issue, RB Matt Forte has surprised everyone with his solid play thus far, it’s time for Orton to shine and show Coach Lovie Smith he deserves to be the #1 QB.  This may be a little difficult against a strong defence that dominated Big Ben last week.

Quick Hits

- WR Brandon Lloyd and Devin Hester both are nursing injuries.  Lloyd is having some hip trouble, but should be available Sunday night.  Hester on the other hand is questionable due to his nagging rib injury.

- The Bears defence has some injuries as well, with Nathan Vasher and Lance Briggs uncertain if they will start come Sunday.

- This is the Bears second Sunday Night game this season, maybe this is a good sign as in Week 1 the Bears were victorious over the Indianapolis Colts.

For an Eagles perspective, check out James Centifonti’s post.  GO Bears!

-Will

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Last post (s) by William Hillock

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