Arizona Cardinals vs Chicago Bears: Preview, prediction

Sep 13, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Khiry Robinson (29) is tackled by Arizona Cardinals defensive end Calais Campbell (93) and defensive end Frostee Rucker (92) during the first half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Defense will be the deciding factor in this game. Last week, Chicago Bears running back, Matt Forte torched the Packers to the tune of 141 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries. The Arizona Cardinals defense was successful at stopping the Saints’ rushing attack with Mark Ingram being the team’s leading rusher with 24 yards.  If the Cardinals can hold Forte to less than 100 yards, then it will make things that much harder for the Bears.

The defense will need to put pressure on quarterback Jay Cutler early and often. If Cutler is frustrated it will open up more opportunities for the defense to set up the offense in scoring position. The Bears’ number 1 receiver, Alshon Jefferey, got injured in a practice Thursday, and didn’t participate in practice on Friday. If Jefferey ends up sitting for the game, and the defense contains Forte, it will be a tough day at the office for Jay Cutler.

A hot topic this week is Bears defensive coordinator, Vic Fangio, who was formerly the defensive coordinator for Jim Harbaugh’s 49ers. Fangio should be familiar with the Arizona Cardinals offense, this shouldn’t stop Carson Palmer from leading the team down the field. The talent on this Bears defense doesn’t compare to the talent that was on the 49ers defense.

Odds:

Arizona -2

O/U 46

Prediction:

With the strong performance last week by the offense, I am expecting big numbers from key players. The defense should be able to pressure Jay Cutler into making poor throws throughout the game, and the defense should be able to subdue the threat that Matt Forte brings. That being said, the Bears will definitely be down.

Cardinals 34 Bears 17