Three Reasons the Bears Could Lose to The Seahawks

The Seahawks are 10-point underdogs to the Bears this week, indicating that it's Chicago's game to lose. 

That might be an accurate line, but could also be a burden. After all, this is a Bears team that everyone expects to dominate, especially with one of the NFL's most ferocious defenses. So if that unit doesn't stop a red hot Matt Hasselbeck and his quick releases, or slow down the resurgent Marshawn Lynch, well, snowballs might start flying from the stands.

So here are three reasons the Bears could lose to the Hawks.

Jay Cutler Gets Too Loose

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 26: Jay Cutler #6 of the Chicago Bears throws a pass against the New York Jets at Soldier Field on December 26, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bears defeated the Jets 38-34. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Yes, Cutler's had a solid year. He's thrown with accuracy (60% completion rating) and cut down on the picks (10 less than last year, in fact). But do you trust him to keep the ball on a string in his first NFL playoff game?

Hmmm.

I like Cutler's mobility. When flushed from the pocket he has decent wheels, and can throw on the move as well as anyone at the position. He also spins a nice short ball to the slant receiver and on the corner route. Those passes are good for avoiding interceptions. It's when he forces the longer ball over the linebackers you start coughing up your Cheetos.

The Young Chicago Offensive Line Springs Leaks

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CHARLOTTE, NC - OCTOBER 10: The offensive line of the Chicago Bears warms up prior to the Bears game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on October 10, 2010 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Geoff Burke/Getty Images)

The last time these teams met at Soldier Field, Cutler was sacked six times. The Hawks blitzed their defenders off the edge, with safeties Jordan Babineaux and Lawyer Milloy, as well as cornerback Roy Lewis wreaking havoc for Chicago's offense.

Sure, the Bears have tightened up since, reducing the penetration to the backfield and limiting sacks on their signal-caller. But Seattle rattled a more mobile and creative Drew Brees last week, so, you know...

Devin Hester Is a Non-Factor

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CHICAGO - AUGUST 28: Devin Hester #23 of the Chicago Bears fumbles the snap on a play in the 'wildcat' formation as teammate Matt Forte #22 moves to the ball against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason game at Soldier Field on August 28, 2010 in Chic

What more is there to say about Hester? He's quick, elusive and terrifying for opposition coaches.

Seahawks head man Pete Carroll suggested he might kick to Hester and simply cover better. Really? That might end in tears, Pete. But then again, maybe someone finally calls Hester's bluff.