MNF Preview: 6 Players Who Will Impact the Outcome this Monday Night

Their isn't a lot to look forward to on Mondays, but it makes the beginning of the work week seem less hectic when there is Monday Night Football.

The bright lights shine over the league’s biggest stars come Monday night, and the country should expect nothing short of a thriller when the Chicago Bears play the Detroit Lions on October 10th .

Both teams are looking to come out the gates early in this NFC North showdown, as this game is a marquee match up that will certainly make a statement within the division

The Detroit Lions are experiencing a terrific start to their season, boasting a 4-0 record for the first time in over 20 years. Many did not expect to see such a dramatic turnaround in the Motor City, but timely defense and an explosive offense have the Lions sitting pretty atop the NFC North with the Green Bay Packers.

At 2-2, the Chicago Bears may be a little upset that they haven’t replicated their winning ways of last season. “Da Bears” will certainly need to be at their best this Monday night because the Lions are no longer a divisional doormat.

Here is a list of six players who can certainly impact the outcome of this NFC North clash.

1. Matt Forte

Coming off a 200-yard rushing performance against the Carolina Panthers, Matt Forte has without a doubt cemented his status as a consistent performer come game day.

Forte has been the subject of media scrutiny due to his contract situation, but it is quite obvious he is not letting that distract him. He has powered his way through defenses while quietly building his case for more money.

And since the Bears offense has shifted to a “run first” mentality, Forte is the focal point that dictates the pace of play. Expect him to carry the load for the Bears and if he is on, he will certainly find the end zone more than once.

2. Calvin Johnson

The Detroit Lions have a game changer in Calvin Johnson, who is a genetic freak to say the least. The former Georgia Tech standout is the nightmare for defenses and is one of the most dangerous threats in the red zone.

Johnson has scored at least two touchdowns in the first four games of the season, a feat only matched by Hall of Famer Cris Carter. He was pivotal in last week’s win against the Dallas Cowboys, capping off a brilliant fourth quarter and completing the biggest road comeback win in NFL history.

Lovie Smith and his coaching staff are going to spend extra time devising a game plan to account for Johnson’s abnormal athleticism and talent. And if they don’t, the scoreboard could turn ugly pretty quickly.

3. Julius Peppers

While he hasn’t appeared as dominate as he was last year, Julius Peppers is still the best defensive lineman the Bears have. He is constantly drawing double and triple teams, opening the way for his teammates to make plays.

The Bears have made a name for themselves in the NFL through their defensive play, but have been criticized this season for their play thus far, or lack thereof. Still, Peppers is an unquestioned leader for the team and his play never goes unnoticed

Peppers should be the biggest concern for Detroit’s front line, because he has the capabilities to put the team on his back if need be. Not many players can do such a thing, and the Bears will be looking to No. 90 during crunch time.

4. Matthew Stafford

The early part of Stafford’s career has been a mix of highs and lows. While he has shown the abilities needed to be an elite quarterback in this league, injuries have haunted him greatly and looked to slow down the 2009 No. 1 overall draft pick.

Stafford is finally healthy and able to string together some consistency, much to the joy of Lions fans. He is living up to the hype and is utilizing his talents and football intelligence so far this season, leading a rejuvenated Detroit squad.

With plenty of weapons at his disposal and suitable time to make decisions, Stafford is capable of picking apart the Bears’ secondary. If Chicago wants to slow down a potent Detroit offense, their defense must pressure the young gunslinger early and often.

5. Devin Hester

As the NFL’s all-time leader in kick off/punt return touchdowns, Devin Hester is indeed “ridiculous”. Ever since he came into the league from the University of Miami, the league has watched Hester shatter records at stunning pace.

And while he remains the most dangerous return man in the game, his role with the Bears has been a topic of discussion the past few seasons. Lovie Smith is still trying to balance Hester between wide receiver and return specialist, a task that sometimes backfires on him.

That being said, nothing should be taken away from the man because he is the personification of the term “X-factor.” Teams shudder at the sight of Hester lining up to receive kicks and punts, and Detroit will have the unwanted task of chasing down Hester…that is if they even kick it to him.

6. Ndamukong Suh

Labeled a “dirty player” as of late, Ndamukong Suh is often portrayed negatively for no good reason. While some argue he is a tad malicious when it comes to making tackles, nobody should question the young man’s desire to play the game.

Suh has quickly established himself among the league’s best defensive players, and he wasted no time during his rookie campaign showing the league why. A 2010 All-Pro selection, the former Cornhusker is a mismatch nightmare that will be the face of Detroit Lions football for years to come.

The Lions’ defense is reliant on Suh, and they are expecting him to have a monster game against a depleted Chicago offensive line. If Suh has his way, Jay Cutler will be on the ground more than he already is!