This is a battle between two disappointing teams with starting QBs that turn the ball over at alarming rates.  The team that loses this game will likely be watching the playoffs on T.V. which makes is a must-win game for both teams.

The Bears won’t change anything on offense as they prefer to run the ball and throw deep.  The problem with that against the Redskins is that they have a really good run defense as they only allow 97.8 yards rushing per game and 3.9 ypc.  Part of the problem for the Bears offense this season is that the offensive line is starting to look their ages and that’s not a good thing.  Bears QBs have been sacked 38 times this season and they must keep Andre Carter (8 sacks) out of their backfield if Rex Grossman is going to have time to throw the ball deep which is his best asset.  Still, look for Grossman to attack the safeties of the Redskins with TE Desmond Clark down the seams.

The Redskins will likely attack the Bears with their running game.  The Bears are allowing 130.8 yards per game rushing and 4.4 yards per carry so far this season.  Clinton Portis (920 yards rushing, 7 TDs) and Ladell Betts (259 yards rushing) should be able to find running room but it’s also possible that Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs could have big games to stump the Skins running game.  More important to the Redskins is that QB Jason Campbell must protect the football.  He has thrown 11 interceptions this season and he’s lost 8 fumbles so look for the Bears to bring the heat on him.  DE Adewale Ogunleye has 9 sacks and he has forced a fumble in four consecutive games so the Redskins must keep him out of their backfield.  The way the Redskins can attack the blitz is by throwing short passes to TE Chris Cooley and WR Santana Moss and hope they can break a big play or two.

PREDICTION:  BEARS 20, REDSKINS 17

Join Our Sports Forum Community: BlogLockers.com
More Discussion With All Sports Fans!