As the Chicago Bears prepare to take on their arch rivals, the Green Bay Packers, this Sunday, fans are filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety.
With Green Bay boasting an eight-game winning streak, the Bears are desperate for a win to start the season at home and will have to overcome a stout Packers defense.
Buy Bears TicketsWith that in mind, here are some causes for concern heading into the Week 1 opener:
1. The Emergence of Jordan Love
The end of the Aaron Rodgers era brought a sigh of relief to the NFC North. However, Jordan Love, the Packers’ 2020 first-round pick, has taken over the offense, and it’s unclear how he will perform. Everyone is hoping that the departure of Rodgers hasn’t given way to a new star quarterback in Green Bay.
2. Double Trouble: RBs Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon
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Jones and Dillon could be a classic cop duo from an 80’s show, but they’re a backfield with over 2,500 all-purpose yards and 14 touchdowns. With an inexperienced quarterback, the Packers will lean on the running backs and look to test Chicago’s revamped defense, which was the worst in the NFL last year.
3. Capable Edge Rushers
Another great duo, Rashan Gary and Preston Smith, will be healthy and are the key to Green Bay’s pass rush. Both edge rushers have been consistently productive, with Smith generating 33.5 sacks in his career with the Packers. Before his injury last year, Gary had six sacks. Last year, Justin Fields was the most sacked quarterback in the NFL. Can the Bears keep him upright?
4. Playmaking Cornerbacks
Rasul Douglas and Jaire Alexander are two of the best ball-hawking defensive backs in the NFL. Of the three cornerbacks in 2022 with four interceptions or more in the fourth quarter – Douglas and Alexander were two. As a passer, Justin Fields threw six interceptions in the fourth quarter. In a close game, look for Douglas and Alexander to make plays.
Summary
The challenges facing the Bears are undeniable. But after a busy offseason revamping the roster, it will be an excellent opportunity for Chicago to show their improvement. History has shown that anything can happen “Any given Sunday.” Here’s to hoping the Bears win this highly anticipated matchup.
