SLR Predictions: Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears
By Zac Snyder
Mike Olsen: With the level of parody in today’s NFL, it is always a challenge to beat the same team twice in one season, especially a team as hot as the Chicago Bears. In the first showdown, the Lions took advantage of the Bears’ inability to pressure Matthew Stafford by torching the Chicago secondary. The Bears will bring extra defenders to generate a pass rush, and Detroit should be able to take advantage of the gaps left behind. The Bears’ offense will rely heavily on Matt Forte, and if Mike Martz can commit to the run game, will be extremely successful in gashing the Lion defense. Forte and the lack of a Lion run game will likely doom Detroit in this rematch. Chicago Bears 31, Detroit Lions 21
Marty Medvedik: The San Francisco game was a trap game and the Denver game was a statement game. This game against the Bears is a must win game. The Bears are on a three game win streak and haven’t lost since they got beat by the Lions. The Lions have to win to secure their place in the playoff hunt. It’s going to be an old fashioned Black and Blue slugfest. Lions – 21, Bears – 17
Ross Husson: I know the Lions beat the Bears last time but this game scares me. Devin Hester isn’t expected to play on Sunday but I still think our kicking problems will be an issue especially if this game is close (which I think it will be). The Bears were pretty impressive against the Eagles. I think the Lions barely come out of a Chicago with a win mostly due to having a bye last week. Lions 17, Bears 16
Zach Berridge: Both teams know how crucial this game is for their seasons. Green Bay has the division (likely) sealed up already, and it looks like the NFC North will send a team to the playoffs in a wildcard spot. A Lions loss and they’re tied. Knowing their tough schedule ahead (two vs. Green Bay, one at Oakland, one at New Orleans), I think we see the rested Lions play as focused as they have all season. The running game has been solid enough to keep opening up lanes for Matt Stafford to throw in. If the D can get to Jay Cutler consistently, I see no reason for the Lions to get their first road loss of the season. Lions 34, Bears 17
Chris Czar: The Bears have been a completely different team since their Monday night beat down in Detroit. Julius Peppers and the Bears defense have been harassing opposing QBs which could be bad news for Matt Stafford and the Lions offense. In what should be a close game, the Lions injuries in the kicking game might be the difference. I’ve been wrong three straight weeks on my predictions and I hope that trend continues, but I don’t see it. Bears 24, Lions 21
Zac Snyder: I like the Lions coming off the bye week. It came at a good time to heal some of the natural bumps and bruises that accumulate over an NFL season. As such, the Lions should be sharp but it won’t be an easy game. Lions 23, Bears 20 in overtime.
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