Chicago Bears: What to Look for Against the Broncos in Preseason Week 1

With preseason football upon us, we can now take a quick look at some of the things in action which we have been watching during training camp.

By no means will they be final versions of anything, and in fact we will see only a little of the starters.

That said, there is plenty to watch on this first game from both sides of the ball. 

Shea McClellin

McClellin has struggled a bit in camp, which given some changes in the basic way the Bears want him to play the game (with a hand in the dirt) isn’t surprising.

Tonight, against a sometimes-suspect Denver Broncos offensive line, we should get an initial look at how far along he is or isn’t.

Even if he struggles, it’s not time to panic, as he will get better as the preseason and season progress.

This is the first time against someone other than his teammates and the first look fans will have at their somewhat surprising first pick.

Offensive Line

I know you’re sick of hearing about it, but even Mike Tice is a little disappointed in how this has shaped up.

J’Marcus Webb has won the starting left tackle job for now, but it’s not as if he became a Pro Bowler overnight. There are still issues here.

That said, we get to see how this line holds up against players like Von Miller in a real-game (sort of) situation.

I won’t be surprised if the line stays out there longer than the starting quarterback, if just to get more reps.

Cutler, Marshall and the Rest

Maybe they’re only in for a snap or two, but I hope we get to see some action from these guys tonight.

Honestly, I already feel like it’s going to be a success, but it’d be good to see it in a game. For that matter, I’d like to see how they utilize guys like Devin Hester and Earl Bennett as well.

Alshon Jeffery will be getting some extra reps tonight, as he’s not likely to be a starter and will see more garbage time. I’m anxious to see how he does as well. 

Forte and Bush

How will these carries be broken down, and how will each back get used? That’s what we’ll be looking for.

Again, this isn’t a game where we’ll see a ton of the starters, but it may give us some insight into how Bush/Forte get used, especially if the offense gets in the red zone early.

We’ll see a little Kahlil Bell and Lorenzo Booker as well. Booker had a ton of promise coming out of college but just can’t get it together. Bell is a decent back who can run tough but isn’t someone who has a ton else going on. 

Kellen Davis

Will Mike Tice actually call a play to the tight end?

Mike Martz wouldn’t have, and that’s one of the reasons we’re excited to see how Davis can be used.

We know he has more to offer than the Bears asked of him the last few years.

He’s an added bonus in what could be a great offense in 2012.

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