The Chicago Bears opened their 2011 campaign last week with a dominating 30-12 win over the Atlanta Falcons at Soldier Field. The Bears now travel to the Superdome and face the New Orleans Saints. The Saints (0-1) are following a season-opening 42-34 loss in a shootout at Lambeau Field against the Green Bay Packers.
The Chicago Bears look to extend their four-game winning streak against the New Orleans Saints, which includes the 2007 NFC Championship game.
Drew Brees and the Saints seek their first win of the season despite key injuries to WR Marques Colston (out four weeks with broken collar bone) and Lance Moore (groin). Moore could see limited action for Sunday but would be better served resting and returning 100% in Week 3.
So let’s break it down:
OFFENSE
Bears – The Bears have a top RB in Matt Forte who garnered 158 totals yards from scrimmage with a TD against the Falcons last week. Jay Cutler completed 22 of 32 passes for 312 yards 2 TD and 1 INT. Last season, Cutler threw 6 TDs and 0 INTs indoors with a QB rating of 117.7
Drew Brees is one of the elite QBs in the league today
Saints – Even without Colston and Moore, Drew Brees and the Saints have plenty of offensive weapons remaining including Devery Henderson, Pierre Thomas, Mark Ingram, and TE Jimmy Graham. Brees threw for 419 yards 3 TDs and no INTs but loss to Aaron Rodgers and the Packers last week.
My pick: Tie
DEFENSE
This will be an emotional game for Urlacher
Bears – The defensive line consisting of Julius Peppers, Amobi Okoye and Henry Melton pressured Matt Ryan all game forcing 3 turnovers. The Bears D had 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles (one returned for a TD by Brian Urlacher) and an INT – also from Urlacher.
Saints – The Saints have key injuries on defense. Safety Roman Harper (Ankle) and CB Tracy Porter (Calf) are both listed as doubtful for Sunday’s matchup. DT Shaun Rogers did not participate in practice Thursday as his status for the game is unknown. This could be trouble as the Saints surrendered 399 total yards to the Packers last week.
My Pick: Da Bears!
SPECIAL TEAMS
Hester was returning both Kickoffs and Punts last week
Bears – Last week, Devin Hester was handling both kickoff AND punt returns. Although he did not return any for a TD, he is still the most dangerous return man in the game. Of course, FG kicker Robbie Gould provides consistency for the Bears special teams.
Saints – The Saints proved they do not need Reggie Bush as Darren Sproles provided the offensive spark the Saints were looking for. Sproles finished the game with 168 total return yards on 4 attempts including a 72 yard punt returned for a TD.
My Pick: Da Bears!
4TH PHASE X-FACTOR
Bears – The D-Line is arguably the best defensive line in the league. The front four will constantly pressure Brees to disrupt his throws and not get into any rhythm. The Bears D will force turnovers, but how many?
"Who Dat? Nation"
Saints – The Superdome is loud! “Who Dat” Nation will be in full force and will be demanding a win in their home opener. This place is tough to play in.
My Pick: Saints
My Winner for the Wk. 2 Matchup: Da Bears!
Final Score – Bears 27 – Saints 21
About the Author
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Written by Kamil Kolodziejski
Born and raised a Chicago Fan!
I am a recent graduate from DePaul University with a sports management degree. My lifelong goal is to become a part of the Sports Industry and hopefully one day work for one of my favorite teams in the Bears, Bulls, Blackhawks, Cubs, or the Fire.
