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Eagles-Bears preview
Eagles-Bears preview
Bears: The biggest problems with this unit have been outside, where LT John Tait has been slowed by a groin injury and RT Fred Miller just hasn't played very well. After giving up six sacks in Brian Griese's first start, they've allowed just three in the last two games.
PICK: EAGLES
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DEFENSE
Eagles
292.6 yards per game (7th)
Bears
361.3 yards per game (27th)
Defensive line
Eagles: The Eagles have been remarkably healthy up front, which has allowed Jim Johnson to use an eight-man rotation and keep players fresh. Two of their three sacks of Jets QB Chad Pennington last week came in the fourth quarter.
Eagles: The Eagles have been remarkably healthy up front, which has allowed Jim Johnson to use an eight-man rotation and keep players fresh. Two of their three sacks of Jets QB Chad Pennington last week came in the fourth quarter.Bears: Tampa-2 disciple Lovie Smith doesn't blitz a lot, relying mainly on his front four for pass-rush pressure. Led by DE Mark Anderson, the Bears are ranked fifth in sacks per pass play, but are allowing 4.6 yards per carry. Pro Bowl DT Tommie Harris has been slowed by a hamstring injury.
PICK: BEARS
Linebacker
Eagles: Chris Gocong gives the Eagles a physical presence at SLB that they haven't had since Carlos Emmons played the position. He has shown excellent recognition skills reacting to the run or pass. He'll be busy vs. a Bears offense that relies heavily on the tight end.
Eagles: Chris Gocong gives the Eagles a physical presence at SLB that they haven't had since Carlos Emmons played the position. He has shown excellent recognition skills reacting to the run or pass. He'll be busy vs. a Bears offense that relies heavily on the tight end.Bears: The Bears shut down LaDainian Tomlinson and Larry Johnson in Weeks 1 and 2. Since then, they've been gashed for 5.7 yards per carry. MLB Brian Urlacher's play has dropped off dramatically. For only the seventh time in his career last week, he had five or fewer tackles as he struggled to get off blocks.
PICK: BEARS
Secondary
Eagles
EaglesDespite the absence of Pro Bowlers Lito Sheppard and Brian Dawkins, this unit has played exceptionally well, holding opposing quarterbacks to a 73.3 passer rating and 56.7 completion percentage. Sheppard, out since Week 1, could return Sunday.
Bears: Injuries have forced the Bears to use nine different starters in the secondary. Fearful of giving up the deep ball, they've played very little press coverage. Opposing QBs have a 94.6 passer rating and 67.7 completion percentage against them.
