By: Jonathan Young (Follow Me on Twitter @JonoYoungP4P)
This match-up is the reason I really enjoy handicapping NFL
games. The Arizona Cardinals come in to Soldier Field following a 31-19 win
over the New Orleans Saints last Sunday with QB Carson Palmer throwing for 307
yards and 3 TDs. The Cardinals offense did look very good against a Saints
defensive unit that in my view will be at the footer of the defense rankings
come December.
The Chicago Bears showed some signs of life in a 31-23 loss
to the Packers in the opener, leading Green Bay, 13-10 at halftime. However,
the Packers outscored the Bears, 21-3 in the second half prior to a late
touchdown to seal the game.
One major factor in favour of Chicago on Sunday is that the
Cardinals allowed Drew Brees to go 11-for-18 for 183 yards with a TD in three-WR
formations last week, a formation that was heavily utilized by John Fox and the
Bears offense against Green Bay. Chicago gained 306 yards on 41 Plays in the
three-WR formation last Sunday and will be looking to implement the same in
week 2.
As well as being an elite RB, Matt Forte is also one of the
most effective pass catchers out of the backfield; he had 102 receptions last
season and had 5 catchers last week for 25 yards. I think quick passes and
screens keep Arizona’s perimeter players in check and Cutler will be able to
move the chains on a regular basis.
2* Best Bet - Chicago Bears + 2
GL
Jonathan Young
