Chicago Bears' Week Five Preview

One of the most alarming stats of last season, and there were many, is the fact that the Bears lost to the Lions twice. As a Bears fan that burned me more than anything last season, as those games were riddled with turnovers and stupid mistakes no team should make, let alone one coming off a Super Bowl appearance.

That being said, I have to point out the importance of winning the two games we have against the Lions this year. It's the simple fact that Minnesota has nothing but room to improve and the Packers still have a stout defense. The Bears need to take advantage of a team they have a clear advantage over to help their record within the division.

Kyle Orton needs to focus on the positives of last week's game against the Eagles and move on from there. Orton had two INTs and a fumble, and all of those were caused by the Eagles' pass rush.

I’m not absolving him of blame; I just wish to point out that it wasn’t so much Orton making mistakes as much as it was him under fire most of the game. Orton did however force a ball into the end zone for an interception—one he should have just held onto, taking the sack. Orton has improved every week so far, so why stop now? 

Matt Forte, along with Kevin Jones, has an opportunity for a big game this week. Detroit’s defense ranks dead last in the league, giving up an average of 433 total yards per game. The Lions lost their big defensive tackle Sean Rogers to free agency this past offseason and have not found anyone to fill the gap.

If the Bears O-Line can get aggressive early, the rushing game will flourish.  

Players to Watch

Kevin Jones: This is the first game against his former team, so look for Jones to be hungry. Jones will still be backup to Matt Forte, but for goal line and third and short situations expect Jones to bust out and have a big game off the bench. I also wouldn’t be surprised if Jones lines up at the fullback position.

Marcus Harrison: With the suspension to Tommie Harris, Marcus Harrison will see more playing time on the defensive line. If he wants to make an impression on the coaching staff, this week would be a golden opportunity.

Key to the Game

Time of possession: Though the Lions haven’t played well at all this season, they still sport a pair of stud receivers and a QB capable of getting them the ball when he’s not getting sacked. Eating up the clock is crucial to give the defense, especially the corner backs, the rest they need to defend the pass.

A healthy dose of Matt Forte and Kevin Jones up and down the field should get the job done for the Bears.