Week 12 keys to the game: Chicago Bears vs Tennessee Titans

Oct 20, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Matt Barkley (12) during warmups prior to the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 26-10. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 20, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Matt Barkley (12) during warmups prior to the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 26-10. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Chicago Bears had a good showing in the first half in New York, but failed to close out the game. The Bears will now welcome in a red hot Marcus Mariota to town who is fighting for a playoff spot. Can the Bears play the role of spoiler this week? Here are three keys that will guarantee a Chicago victory.

The punches just keep on coming for the Chicago Bears. A week after losing Kyle Long and Alshon Jeffery, the Bears were hit with another slew of bad news. Zach Miller, Josh Sitton, Tracy Porter, and Jay Cutler all suffered major injuries during the loss to the Giants. In addition, Pro Bowl caliber linebacker Jerrell Freeman became the second player suspended this season for PEDs. Can the Bears fight through the adversity and steal a win? Here are three ways they can make that happen.

Last week’s keys:

Zach Miller’s breakout game: It’s hard to judge a guy who only played half of the game, but there is reason to believe Miller had a lock on this key. Through one half of play, Miller logged 3 catches for 61 yards and a score. I said he needed 75 yards and a score for the key. Rarely do I display this kind of mercy, but I think Miller would have squeezed out 14 yards in the second half. Miller spearheaded the offense in the first half, and his absence in the second was painfully obvious. Bears earn this key.

Back up Pernell McPhee’s smack talk: The outspoken Bears linebacker promised sacks , and the Bears delivered… 0 sacks. The Bears defense had a chance to make a statement, but were never able to get to Manning. The defense played well as a whole, but forced no big plays to spark the offense, especially in regards to the pass rush. The Bears lose out on this key.

No turnovers: The only turnover came on a last play desperation throw. I give the Bears this key because the ball security kept the game close. Chicago’s defense allowed Jay Cutler to go down the field for a win in the final drive. The Chicago Bears earn this key.

Week 11 keys: 2/3