Bears vs Packers: Top 5 Matchups to Watch
Sep 21, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back Eddie Lacy (27) is tackled for a safety during the second quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
2. Matt Forte vs Eddie Lacy
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So Forte and Lacy don’t go up against each other directly, but this matchup will have a big say in how this game turns out. As any fantasy owner will tell you, both Forte and Lacy are off to horrible starts. Earlier this week, we looked at a number of reasons why the Bears are off to a slow start running the ball.
The reasons for Lacy’s slow start are similar to Forte’s. The Packers have faced the #1, #4 and #6 rush defenses so far this season. You could say that Lacy’s start is a little more troubling since he’s barely cracked the 40-yard mark this season and isn’t much of a factor in the passing game.
Is Lacy going through a sophomore slump? Is Forte going over the running back cliff? Whoever has the better day on Sunday will lead his team to victory.
1. Jay Cutler vs Aaron Rodgers
Nov 4, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (right) talks to Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (left) after the Bears beat the Packers 27-20 at Lambeau Field. Rodgers left the game early in the 1st quarter with a left shoulder injury. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
Sorry to take the obvious as the top matchup, but let’s face it, these teams will really go the way the quarterbacks go. Aaron Rodgers is telling Packer fans to R-E-L-A-X while Cutler is trying to give us more “good Jay” and less “bad Jay”. Jay Cutler’s problems with the Packers are well documented. His passer rating against the Packers is a putrid 65.1, largely because of his 17 interceptions. The Packers know that “same old Jay” will throw them a few if they just hang in there. Cutler trying to turn over a new leaf and besides the one that he gave away to the Bills, he’s been solid.
For Rodgers, he’s in an uncharacteristic spot, with his completion percentage down 3% at a career low since he took over as Packers starter. His passer rating is also at a 5-year low at 95.1. Rumors are swirling that his relationship with actress Olivia Munn is creating a distraction. The Packers have been 1-2 before the last two seasons, but having the 21st ranked passing offense has not been the norm. Which quarterback will lead his team to victory on Sunday?
What do you think? Which matchup is the most important to Sunday’s outcome?