September 22, 2010
NFL – The Packers visit the Bears on Monday night
Either Green Bay or Chicago will lose their unbeaten record this season when they collide for the NFC North division first place.
By Andrew Hill
Chicago has one shot to reverse the two defeats that they suffered in 2009 against Green Bay, a shot that could also guide them to a solitary first place in NFC North Division. The Bears’ are enjoying a great early-season from their two victories combined with the negative results from Minnesota (0-2), one of their direct rivals.
The season opener for Chicago was against Detroit, whom they defeated 14-19 at Ralph Wilson Stadium on September 12. One week later the good results continued on their visit to Dallas, where they earned their second win of the season after beating the Cowboys 27-20. This result didn’t just mean a perfect record, but also an achievement that didn’t happen since 2006.
The win versus one of the called favorites in the NFC made the players euphoric, and Rashied Davis just couldn’t resist keeping his thoughts to himself, when in front of the fans that had gathered behind their bench, a cheerful “we’ll be back!” came out of his mouth. There is still a long road ahead before February, when Super Bowl XLV will be held in the Cowboys Stadium, but Davis already pictured where he wants his team to be by then.
21 out of 29 passes completed for 277 yards with three touchdowns
The architect of this victory was Jay Clutler, who had an amazing game that was very close to reaching perfection -21 out of 29 passes completed for 277 yards with three touchdowns – and was vital for the outcome of the game. As if that wasn’t good enough, he didn’t suffer any interceptions and had an impressive 136.7 passer rating.
On the other hand, the Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers closed up a good game as well this past weekend against Buffalo, which contributed to their 34-7 win. Rodgers managed to complete 19 of 26 for 255 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. This victory added to the one obtained in week 1 versus the Eagles make up their 2-0 record this season.
The Packers and the Bears have not met since 1964 with both enjoying of a 2-0 record. On that occasion Green Bay walked out triumphantly 49-0 at home. This Monday the oldest rivalry in NFL’s history will be played for the 180th time, and both will try to add their third consecutive win.
Grant will be out for the season
After Ryan Grant’s injury on week 1 –who went through surgery on his right ankle on Tuesday 21- the Packers decided not to hold a roster spot for him, and will be betting on Brandon Jackson and rookie James Starks as his replacements.
Jackson didn’t have a spectacular game against the Bills, where he had 11 caries for 29 yards, but with a little bit more of time he should be able to improve his performance. And Starks won’t be available until Week 6, when he will be back from the PUP list.
Grant will have a whole season to heal from his surgery, where screws were inserted in his ankle.
About the Author:
Andrew Hill is a high-ranking sports writer, currently writing reviews on the NFL for the sports betting industry. Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety on your site, making sure to leave all links in place and do not modify any of the content.