The Chicago Bears are preparing to go up against another talented NFC team in the Arizona Cardinals. One of the key factors in winning Sunday’s game will be the pass rush to help slow down Carson Palmer and Cardinals offense. Jay Cutler and the Bears receivers will have to move the ball efficiently and take advantage of every red zone opportunity against a good Cardinal defense.
Unfortunately, they may struggle to make these adjustments because of notable injuries on both offense and defense.
Alshon Jeffery WR
Status: Questionable (Hamstring/Calf)
Jeffery has been nursing a calf injury since training camp but now it is a hamstring that may sideline Chicago’s number one receiver. He did not practice with the team on Friday. However, the team remains hopeful that he will be able to contribute on Sunday because without his presence on the field the offense will struggle.
Jermon Bushrod T
Status: Probable (Back)
The Bears will be may be down a starting pass protector due to a back injury that held Bushrod out of practice. They will need to make the adjustment if they want to keep Cutler upright against the pass rush of the Cardinals.
Pernell McPhee LB
Status: Questionable (Wrist/Knee)
McPhee is limited since injuring both his wrist and knee he did not practice on Thursday and Friday.
Jonathan Bostic LB
Status: Out (Ankle)
Bostic was limited in practice on Wednesday, but now he has been ruled officially out for week two due to an ankle injury.
Ego Ferguson DL
Status: Questionable (Knee)
Ferguson did not play in week one against the Packers and team in not sure if he will get to contribute in week two. It is likely that his start to the 2015 NFL season will not come until week three.
Sherrick McManis CB
Status: Probable (Thigh)
Last week McManis recorded three tackles in the loss to the Packers. He did have a full practice this on Thursday and Friday so is likely he will suit up on game day.
The Cardinals have a few starting players that may miss this week’s action as they travel to Soldier Field to face the Bears. However, Bruce Arians, being the creative play caller that he is will have his team prepared on Sunday so, the Bears and John Fox are still in for a tough game.
Deone Bucannon S (Groin)
Status: Questionable
Andre Ellington RB (Knee)
Status: Out
The Cardinals rely heavily on the production of Ellington and not having him on Field will present some challenges.
Michael Floyd WR (Hand)
Status: Probable
Jermaine Gresham TE (Hamstring)
Status: Probable
Mike Iupati G (Knee)
Status: Out
Tony Jefferson S (Hamstring)
Status: Questionable
Troy Niklas TE (Hamstring)
Status: Probable
With notable injuries piling up for both team especial the star offensive players, it will be interesting to see which coach makes the necessary adjustment to walk away with a win this Sunday.