Bears vs. Lions: Halftime Observations for the Bears

Well that was one interesting first half of play.

The battle of NFC North teams takes place at Soldier Field.  In the first match-up of the series the Lions' suffocating defense was able to pressure Cutler and ultimately win the game. The Bears look to even the series and get the win at home.

In the first quarter the Bears dominated the Lions by forcing two turnovers and scoring ten points off the Lions mistakes. Then Devin Hester got loose on a return and put the lead at twenty. The Lions finally got on the board with a field goal after a fumbled exchange between Cutler and Forte.  The score going into half is 20-6 with the bears on top.

Will the Bears be able to maintain their lead?  Can they continue to shut down the Lions offense?

Here are five things that Chicago needs to do in the second half against Detroit to win this ball game.

1. Protect Jay Cutler

In the first matchup against the Lions, the Bears’ offensive line was unable to protect Cutler.  The Lions have a vaunted defensive line that loves to pressure the quarterback.  In the first half the Bears’ offensive line did a great job in keeping Cutler upright.  If Cutler has time in the pocket he will be able to pick the Lions’ secondary apart.  
  
2. Pound the Ball with Forte

Matt Forte has shown that he is a premier running back in the NFL.  He can run the ball between the tackles with consistency but he can also catch the ball out of the backfield.  In the second half the Bears would be crazy not to give him the ball and let him take over the game.  He will eat up the clock and move the chain with the more touches he gets.  Forte will wear down the Lions defense and secure a Bears victory.

3. Win Turnover Battle

In the second half the defense must continue to force fumbles and convert interceptions.  In order to win the turnover battle the Bears’ offense must play mistake free.  Costly turnovers, like the Forte fumble in the second quarter, will give the Lions the opportunity they are looking for.  

Win the turnover battle and win the game.

4. Shut Down Calvin Johnson

Excellent job in the first quarter forcing a fumble from Megatron’s hands.  In the second half the Bears need to limit Johnson from making big plays.  They will be able to handle short yardage plays but can not give up big plays that he is accustomed to.  

The Bears should put two men on Calvin at all times and do whatever is necessary to keep the ball out of his hands.  Don’t let Johnson go off and the Bears will be one step closer to victory.

5. Devin Hester Make a Special Play

Wow. Devin Hester is one special player.  His return in the first half was a classic Hester return. Hester’s ability to return the ball gives special team coordinators nightmares.  He needs to get loose on one return in the second half.  

If he can consistently make fifteen yard returns, he will be giving his offense great field position and more opportunities to score.  A big return for a touchdown could be the nail in the coffin that the Bears are looking for.