NFC Game Of The Week
Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears
Packers: They looked shaky at times in Cincinnati. But at the end of the day, a win is a win and they continue to roll with their fourth straight win. For a second, I didn’t think anybody wanted to win that game in week five because of all the sloppy football on display. Missing PAT’s is the equivalent of missing free throws! Then, between both teams, there were a total of five missed field goals, you read that correctly. The biggest takeaway I had watching this game was that duo of Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams. I even joked around on Twitter the other day and said their new nickname is “Pitch and Catch” because when I see Aaron target Davante, they make it look so effortless. As I was watching that game, the former defensive player in me got angry because I’m just asking myself, why won’t they double number 17? He’s the best playmaker on the football field and when he gets into a rhythm, he won’t stop! The NFC is looking to be competitive once again this year. The Arizona Cardinals are undefeated at 5-0, then, you have the Cowboys, Buccaneers, Rams and these Packers all sitting at 4-1 after five games. Once again, I’m still trying to get a feel for their defense because they play in spurts. At times, they remind me of those Colts teams with Peyton Manning. The offense is so electric and the defense is the downfall. It’s to the point that the offense must sustain long drives to help the defense. On Sunday, they continue their mini road trip. Cincinnati last week, Chicago this week.
Bears: After the Browns game, I was asked one question: Who was to blame for that awful game? Was it Matt Nagy or was it the front office for not fixing up the offensive line? I didn’t hesitate and I stated it was hands down Nagy because of the inability to adjust within game. If I see that a certain player is consistently sacking my rookie quarterback, I’m adjusting, plain and simple. Another issue I had with him was not catering to his quarterback’s skillset. Justin Fields has mobility, so use it! Move the pocket, allow him to make throws on the run. Ever since Matt stopped calling plays and named Fields the starter, the Bears are on a two-game winning streak. Now, let me say this. I really like Justin. He’s different and what I mean by that is he feels each time he steps on the field, he can make the best play possible. To be so young, I like the leadership he shows. He leads and that team follows him. Sunday was one of the best overall wins for them in quite some time because the offense showed some balance and as expected, that defense handled the rest. That’s the one thing about Bears football is knowing that the defense will make its mark in some capacity. They’ll return home on Sunday for a huge game. It’s “Packers Week” as many Bears fans call it.
Packers X-Factor: Aaron Jones– He brings so much versatility to this entire offense. As a runner, he can get those hard earned yards in between the tackles, he bounces outside and also has the speed to get himself into the next level of the defense. I’m still calling for the Packers to use him more as a receiver because he’s just as effective in that aspect of the football game. There’s not a safety, linebacker or corner who can cover him. Aaron should have a big day against the Bears.
Bears X-Factor: Roquan Smith– He was meant to play linebacker. If you watch Roquan closely, he’s always flying to the ball. He’s that magnetic force and knows where to be to make a play upon the football. Against the run, he gets in the pile and gets the job done and this goes back to his days at Georgia. In pass coverage, if you overlook him, he can make you pay for it. Roquan keeps his eyes on the quarterback. He does everything. Makes tackles, rushes the passer and plays sideline to sideline.
Final Thoughts: It’s always an honor to preview this matchup. The oldest rivalry in the NFL is always something to look forward too. In 26 games against the Bears, Aaron Rodgers is 21-5. That’s remarkable. Rule of advice for the Bears. Circle in on Adams! Do not let him go off! Double him or make him go underneath instead of over the top. I see the Bears attacking this Packers secondary as often as they can without their best player in Jaire Alexander. I already know what the Bears defense will do. As far as the offense is concerned, hopefully they continue to dial up plays for Justin and let him show his skillset. I expect Green Bay to run the football a little more in this one.
Prediction: Packers 30, Bears 21
