Bears vs Steelers: Top 5 Matchups To Watch
Sep 16, 2013; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) takes a snap from center during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
The 2-0 Chicago Bears face the 0-2 Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday night. If you just look at the records, this should be a slam dunk for the Bears. The Steelers have struggled to get the running game going and the defense isn’t quite as formidable as it has been. Meanwhile, the Bears are riding high after consecutive 4th quarter comeback wins as Jay Cutler and the Bears offense are starting to click.
Here are my Top 5 matchups to watch on Sunday night:
Sep 15, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder (7) throws a pass while pressured by Chicago Bears defensive end Shea McClellin (99) during the fourth quarter at Soldier Field. The Bears won 31-30. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
5. Ben Roethlisberger vs Shea McClellin
Big Ben keeps plays alive with his feet and is nearly impossible to bring down. The expectation is that the Steelers will devote some resources to slow down Julius Peppers, so McClellin and Wootton should get opportunities on the other side. McClellin and his high motor are just the type of guy the Bears need to step up on Sunday. McClellin will have to use that high motor to keep Big Ben contained and bring the tree down early and often.
4. James Anderson vs Heath Miller
Heath Miller is supposed to be making his return on Sunday night against the Bears. The Steelers offense has struggled to find their stride this season, with only two TD’s in two games. The tight end has historically been a tough matchup for the Bears and their Cover-2 defense. Newcomer James Anderson has played quite well since he joined the new-look Bears linebacking corps. The Sam linebacker will line up on the TE side. Can Anderson slow down Miller and make the 2012 Steelers MVP’s debut a downer?