Vikings-Bears: The NFC North Battle Heats Up

After six games I think it’s safe to say that the Bears have to be disappointed at their 3-3 record.

With the Minnesota Vikings coming to town the questions about Kyle Orton, Matt Forte, and the Bears' offensive line have been answered for the most part, the big question is whether or not the Bears' defense can stop someone when the game is on the line.

The Bears have only done that once in the four opportunities. They had late leads and put it on the defense to close it out. The victories over the Colts and Lions were pretty well in hand come midway through the fourth quarter.

Once again a veteran has taken the reins of the Vikings (remember Brad Johnson) and this gives them a veteran presence on offense. Gus Frerotte is sitting on a talented but unproven Vikings offense. His guidance has helped them settle down and put less pressure on Adrian Peterson.

Speaking of Peterson, the Bears have a score to settle with the back who torched them for 200+ rushing yards last year. Look for the Bears to do what they did in Atlanta, put seven or eight men in the box and force Frerotte to make plays in the passing game.

The Bears' pass defense is simply awful so far this season. They’ve given up big play after big play and put pressure on the Bears offense to score more and more points.

This problem stems from several things but mostly the lack of pressure on the quarterback. The Bears' front-four need to start getting sacks, knockdowns, and batted balls. Let any QB sit back in the pocket and chances are he’ll find the open man.

On the flip side of things is the Bears' run defense. It has been solid and has forced teams to throw the ball more.


Players to Watch

Matt Forte

The rookie will have a stiff front to run against. This game will truly test what the young man is made of. Not only is this a division game but it’s one in which a statement can be made regarding the rest of the season.

Kyle Orton

Orton had the game won last week only to see shoddy defense let it slip away. It will be interesting to see how Orton responds and performs against a division rival. The Vikings have been picked apart in the passing game a few times this season. Look for Orton to take many three-step drops early and roll outs to set up screen plays.

Devin Hester

The Vikings have the worst kick coverage units in the league, this would be a good time for Hester to bust out and take one back. Not to mention Hester’s constant improvement as a wide receiver.


Key to the Game

Special Teams

Both teams have solid defenses that give up big plays, so it’ll come down to field position and kick coverage. The Bears' special teams coach Dave Toub has the chance to really shine this week.


The Bears have lost more close games than they’ve won this season. A victory against the Vikings will not only boost the Bears' confidence but will also let others in the NFC know that the Bears are a real threat to teams looking to take the NFC North lightly.