Staff Picks: Predicting All 16 Chicago Bears Games
Heather Pink (12-4)
In Jay Cutler’s contract year, I see the Bears succeeding. Trestman makes Cutler have more faith in other receivers to try and put up big offensive numbers. The Bears defensive doesn’t miss a beat, but probably doesn’t score as many touchdowns as last year. The Bears continue to struggle against the Packers but their wins rack up to get a Wild Card spot into the playoffs.
Decon (13-3)
Dec. 23, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA; Chicago Bears fans cheer during the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Bears beat the Cardinals 28-13. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Final record – 13-3, yeah I said it!!! The Bears with a real offense and consistent play on defense will surprise the league this year. Marc Trestman and Phil Emery have a plan and while that plan includes a roster that includes nearly 20% rookies, all oars are rowing the same way. I cannot wait to see what Cutler can do with a respectable offensive line. In fact, if the cameras don’t catch Cutty making too many pouty faces, he could be in the discussion for a Pro Bowl bid.
Mike Flannery (11-5)
I don’t understand the pessimism around the Bears in the both the local and national media. They are coming off a ten win season with the same core of skill players, an improved offensive line (can’t be worse), and a great defense that will be better without a statue at MLB (sorry). The NFC North is brutal, their schedule is tough (13th toughest), and it may take a few games to implement Trestman’s offensive scheme, but the Bears are a borderline playoff team based on their defense alone. If Trestman’s scheme and the revamped offensive line can improve the Bears offense from 28th in the league to somewhere around the middle, the Bears have a shot to win the North and make a run in the playoffs.