Brian Urlacher: Grieving Leader Will Spur Bears to Victory

When the Chicago Bears take on the New Orleans Saints on Sunday in Week 2, they will be led by their grieving leader Brian Urlacher. The seven-time Pro-Bowler lost his mother unexpectedly last week.

The Bears organization came out in force to support Urlacher. A large portion of the organization flew to New Mexico to attend the funeral services, including members of ownership. The Bears were already a tight-knit roster, this will serve to bring them even closer.

Urlacher has been understandably quiet throughout this process but there was little doubt he'd play against Saints.

The Bears defense has always had great success against the Saints and Sean Payton's offense. The Bears' speed-based Cover 2 scheme gives Drew Brees problems.

Julius Peppers, who rented a private plane to fly himself and his teammates to the funeral services also represents a dynamic the Saints will struggle with.

Urlacher's misfortune could have an adverse effect in regards to focus and intensity. I don't believe this will be the case. It'll likely be a scene similar to the occurrence after the death of Brett Favre's father.

Favre played inspired ball and his teammates seemed to rise to the occasion as well. The Bears already have something to prove in Week 2. Even after thoroughly handling the Atlanta Falcons, the Bears still have plenty of doubters.

This game represents an opportunity for the Bears to silence their critics as a win against the Saints on the road would speak volumes. The Bears believe they are an elite team in the NFC. They have the toughest schedule in the NFL in the first three weeks.

A 2-1 record would be impressive, a 3-0 record would be dominant. The Bears will be 2-0 after Urlacher leads them to a road win over the Saints.