Sep 8, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears outside linebacker Lance Briggs (55) celebrates making a tackle during the second quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago Bears weak side linebacker Lance Briggs has been medically cleared to play and is officially listed as questionable.
Trestman says #Bears will list Briggs as questionable and he'll work out before the game before an official decision is made.
— Zach Zaidman (@ZachZaidman) December 20, 2013
There’s no question in my mind – Lance Briggs is going to play, especially if the game is meaningful.
Looking at the Bears’ Week 16 Playoff Scenarios, it is possible that if the Lions lose and the Packers win, the game against the Eagles will only impact the NFC playoff seeding with the NFC North title and playoff representative to be determined in Week 17 at Soldier Field. If that’s the case, does that change Marc Trestman’s “gametime decision” on Briggs? In my opinion, he should play regardless, if for no other reason than to get his “game legs” back underneath him.
Let’s not get out in front of our skis, Briggs’ return should help the run defense, but whether or not he’s in good enough shape to run with the fast-pace is another matter. Briggs hasn’t played since Week 7 when he fractured his shoulder against the Redskins. Even if the Bears can slow down Shady McCoy, they have Nick Foles and the Eagles passing attack to contend with.
It’s going to be an interesting game. Stay tuned to Bear Goggles On for all of the latest updates and info leading up to, during and after the game.