Bears vs Steelers: Game Day Preview and Prediction

Preview

When the Steelers have the ball…

December 23, 2012; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Heath Miller (83) runs after a pass reception against the Cincinnati Bengals during the third quarter at Heinz Field. The Cincinnati Bengals won 13-10. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Don’t expect them to run it, so the emphasis will be on the passing game.  The Bears pass rush needs to make hay and get the big fella down on the ground.  Roethlisberger can extend plays, so those high motor DE’s like Shea McClellin need to pack a lunch, because they’ll be in for a long day.

The cornerbacks will also need to stick with plays until the whistle; they can’t let up coverage because Big Ben will keep plays alive and receivers will run around looking for a hole in the defense.

The return of Heath Miller can’t be understated – he was a big part of the Steelers offense last season.  Tight ends have historically been able to exploit the Cover-2.

When the Bears have the ball…

Sep 15, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Martellus Bennett (83) celebrates with offensive guard Kyle Long (75) after scoring the game-winning touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings during the fourth quarter at Soldier Field. The Bears won 31-30. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

The chess match between Trestman and LeBeau will be worth the price of admission.  Look for Matt Forte to get the ball early and often, whether on the ground or through the short passing game.  I expect Brandon Marshall to get bracket coverage, so it should create chances for Alshon Jeffery and Martellus Bennett.

The Steelers will blitz from anywhere on the field, so the Bears offensive line that has been stellar the first couple of weeks will really be put to the test in their first road game.

Prediction

This game will be a lot tougher than many Bears fans expect, falling into the trap of a 2-0 team going against an 0-2 team.  Marc Trestman will not let this team fall into that trap.  The Steelers offense sees signs of life with the return of Heath Miller, but at the end of the day, the Bears defense takes the ball away and sets up Jay Cutler and the offense with some short fields.  Bears in another nail biter.

Bears 23 – Steelers 19

What do YOU think?  Post your preview and prediction in the Comments.  Go ahead, it’s EASY!!!