Monday 22 October 2012

Monday Night Football - Detroit Lions(2-3) @ Chicago Bears (4-1)

This is a huge battle and will play a big part in the eventual outcome of the NFC North.  The Lions need the win more as 2-4 would be a deep hole to be in, especially in a division with teams as good as the Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers. 

The Bears are traditionally one of the best defenses in the league and they are no different this year.  They are giving up just 291 yards per game and have returned 5 interceptions for touchdowns.  The Bears offense has done quite well, especially on the ground.  Matt Forte and Michael Bush have led the running game and will be a dangerous duo as the season progresses. 

The Lions are a pass heavy offense but they are underachieving at present.  Matt Stafford is averaging just under 300 yards per game, which is 5th in the league, but he isn't finishing off the drives in the way he has to.  He has just 4 touchdown passes and there are 30 quarterbacks in the NFL who have more than 4.  With a target like Calvin Johnson in the end zone, there is no excuse for such a poor return.  Stafford and Johnson need to start this game like they finished the last one, if the Lions are going to win this game. 

Prediction - The way I see this game developing is a tough, tight first half with the Bears taking a narrow lead into half-time.  In the second half the Lions will be trying to force the issue and I expect the Bears defense to stop them and it will lead to turnovers and the Bears will extend their lead and win comfortably. 

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