Bears vs Bengals: Keys to a Chicago Bears Victory

Bracket Busters

You had better believe that the Bengals are going to use a bit of bracket coverage on Brandon Marshall.  The few teams that had success shutting him down used some sort of double coverage.  It’s up to Marc Trestman and Jay Cutler to make them pay.  I’m talking to you Matt Forte, Martellus Bennett and Alshon Jeffery.

Cutler needs to leave his security blanket at home with Camden and spread the ball around.

Aug 15, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Devin Hester (23) runs back a kick-off against the San Diego Chargers during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Many Happy Returns

The Bears have invested a roster spot in Devin Hester to keep him on board as strictly a returner.  Hester seems to be more focused and rejuvenated in his new role.  It’s time to make the investment in him as a specialist pay off with some big returns.  The Bengals are down a few linebackers to injuries, so they might be a little more vulnerable on special teams.  Even if Hester doesn’t pop one, tearing off a few big returns and setting up the new-look offense with a couple of short fields would certainly help take the pressure off Jay Cutler and the still-gelling offense.

Control the Middle of the Field

I contend that whichever team controls the middle of the field will win the game.  We know what’s going on the outside.  Both teams boast some pretty good cornerbacks, but could be vulnerable in the middle of the field.   The Bears will try to challenge the seams with Martellus Bennett and Matt Forte.  The Bengals could test the rookie linebacker Bostic or the recovering DJ Williams in the Bears signature Cover-2 defense.  The Bears will also have the inexperienced Isaiah Frey playing nickelback, so it’s another potential weakness the Bengals could try to expose.

What do YOU think?  What are your keys to a Bears victory?

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