Thursday night football is here, which means that our usual lineup setting routines are now thrown out of whack.

Though the Thursday night game won’t affect every team every week, most of us, across all of the leagues that we play in, will most likely have a key decision or two that will have to be made three days earlier than before.

This is annoying and can lead to the unnecessary benching and/or starting of players. The trade-off, however, is an extra night with an NFL game.

Sounds reasonable to me.

Because I know that many of you will be late to the party in realizing that you have to decide on your Bears and 49ers players by tonight, I have taken the liberty of doing the dirty work for you. Here is your 49ers-Bears fantasy analysis, complete with start/sit recommendations so you don’t even have to think about it.

First, here are the particulars of the game (from our Week 10 TV schedule, announcers, and picks post) and my pick, for those of you interested:

• Bears-49ers Date: Thursday Nov. 12
• Bears-49ers Kickoff Time: 8:20
• Bears-49ers TV Network: NFL Network
• Bears-49ers Announcers: Bob Papa and Matt Millen
• Bears-49ers Point Spread: 49ers -3
• Bears-49ers Over-Under: 43.5
• Bears-49ers Spread Pick: About a month ago, this looked like it was going to be a pretty good game. Then October happened…and the Bears and 49ers quickly slid down the NFC standings. The 49ers sit at 3-5 and haven’t won since they signed Michael Crabtree. Still, they are only two games behind Arizona, and I feel like they are playing better overall than the Bears, who are 4-4 and coming off of a shellacking against Arizona. I just can’t see Mike Singletary allowing Jay Cutler to come into his house and get a win. I like a fired up, back-against-the-wall, this-is-our-house 49ers team to grind out a win…but I’m betting it’s closer than three points. Bears-49ers free pick: Bears +3

Now, a quick look at each team’s defensive stats, courtesy of NFL.com:

• Scoring Defense: 49ers – 21.8 ppg (17th) | Bears – 23.9 ppg (22nd)
• Total Defense: 49ers – 334.2 ypg (19th) | Bears – 326.0 ypg (15th)
• Pass Defense: 49ers – 241 ypg (24th) | Bears – 206.5 ypg (12th)
• Pass TDs allowed: 49ers – 9 (8th) | Bears – 16 (28th)
• Run Defense: 49ers – 93.2 ypg (4th) | Bears – 119.5 (21st)
• Run TDs allowed: 49ers – 8 (20th) | Bears – 7 (17th)

Basically these two teams’ defenses are pretty similar and suggest that there should be more scoring than what you might expect based on the recent histories of the 49ers and Bears.

Let’s break it down position by position:

[Note: When you're done here, you can also check out our Week 10 start em, sit em column for analysis of the weekend games.]

Quarterbacks

You have to like Jay Cutler in this one. He is coming off a 3-TD performance against Arizona and played very well despite the team’s overall poor performance.

By this point everyone should know what they’ll get with Cutler: a lot of yards, a good amount of TDs, plus an INT or two that will cut down on the final total. I’m not starting Cutler over guys like Philip Rivers or Tony Romo, but he’s a good bye week fill-in for Matt Schaub or a solid start in a 12- or 14-team league.

As for Alex Smith, I’m not a huge fan, but you could do worse. He has thrown six TDs over the last three games, but he’s also tossed five picks to go along with them. The Bears’ secondary has proven that TDs are there for the taking, and I’d expect Smith to at least connect with Vernon Davis for one. Still, Smith is nothing more than an emergency spot-start or #2 QB in a 2-QB league.

Running Backs

Frank Gore starts every week. Don’t ask questions.

Matt Forte is a bit of a trickier issue. Here are his carry totals the last three weeks: 6, 26, 5. The first and third totals were affected by the Bears getting down huge early to the Bengals and Cardinals, and Forte did have ten receptions in those two games. Regardless, Forte owners continue to be frustrated by his production, which is especially detrimental in non-PPR leagues, where his 30 receptions don’t mean as much.

Despite his struggles, you have to start Forte. I know that the 49ers are 4th in yards allowed per game on the ground, but you don’t have Forte because he racks up huge rushing totals. You have him for the fact that he gets touches and has the best chance of any Bears RB to get a TD. You drafted him high in the first round and most likely don’t have too many stud options behind him on your bench. Start him, and hope that tonight is his coming out party in 2009.

Wide Receivers

On the San Francisco side, I am just a big fan of any WRs. Only three of the 49ers’ receiving TDs have come from WRs and two of them were from the unheralded Jason Hill last week. Yes, the same Jason Hill whose only four catches of the year came last week. I want to see more from this guy before I pick him up, let alone start him.

The same holds true for Michael Crabtree. I know that everyone is curious about him because of his college dominance and then his holdout, but the truth is that he is just not that relevant yet (or shouldn’t be, at least) from a fantasy perspective, and this is true of most rookie WRs. Yes, he has 14 catches in three games, and there are certainly worse options out there, but I want to see him get into the endzone before I’m starting him. If you’re really hurting, I guess Crabtree is a solid #3 option, but that’s it.

In Chicago, Devin Hester has reached must-start status with his consistency and big play ability. He is really coming along better as a receiver than I ever thought he would and clearly has found solid chemistry with Cutler. The other Bears WRs, Johnny Knox and Earl Bennett, are crap shoots. Bennett is okay from a PPR perspective if you’re desperate, while Knox is a boom-or-bust type whose potential for returns TDs gives him a little extra value. I would not want to have either in my lineup though.

Tight Ends

The two hottest names in tight ends this week are Vernon Davis and Greg Olsen, the latter of which is coming off a 3-TD game against Arizona.

You definitely start Davis, who has quickly emerged as one of the top TE options in the league. Not only does he have seven TDs on the season, but his catch numbers have been pretty good, with five or more catches in eight games. I know that he ran his mouth this week about the Bears’ D-Line, but who cares. He is the top target in the 49ers passing game and gets plenty of chances in the red zone.

As for Olsen, the talent has always been there but the consistency has not been. He does have two one-catch games this year, but both of those game in the first four weeks of the season. Since the bye, Olsen has caught 17 balls in four games and has four TDs.

I think you have to start him unless your other option is a stud like Davis or Tony Gonzalez. Especially if you sat him during his 3-TD outburst last week, you don’t want to be kicking yourself if goes off again. The nice thing is, Olsen is developing a strong enough relationship with Cutler that his 0- and 1-catch days should be in his past.

D/ST Units

I don’t like either defense at this point, and I dropped the 49ers in a couple of leagues this week. Both give up too many yards and too many points, and I think this game will be in the 20s and not offer a whole lot of value. If I had to choose one, I’d want the Bears because of the threat of special teams scores.

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* – Jay Cutler / Greg Olsen photo credit: Viva Ron Mexico

Vernon Davis’ recent comments about the Chicago Bears defense must have been interesting for his head coach to listen to.

In case you haven’t heard, the 49ers’ emerging star at the tight end position basically said that the Bears’ defensive front was filled with a bunch of chumps who couldn’t stop the offensive juggernaut that is the San Francisco 49ers.

And you may recall that his coach, one Mike Singletary, at one time led that very same Chicago Bears defense to one of the greatest single-season defensive performances in the history of the NFL.

So what does this all mean?

Not really a whole hell of a lot to be honest with you, except that you will undoubtedly hear Bob Papa and Matt Millen talking about it Thursday night before kickoff. So you might as well be familiar with the comments they are referring to.

Here are the comments by Vernon Davis about the Chicago Bears defense, from MercuryNews.com (via The Big Lead):

“I think we can destroy their front,” he said. “The guys up front, I think we can destroy them. I don’t see anything spectacular about their front line.”

…..

“Their linebackers, I think we can handle them pretty well,” he said. “I like Ogunleye. I like the way he’s playing up front. He’s about the only player I like on their defensive line. I think he’s doing a good job.”

Davis is also quoted discussing Lance Briggs, which you can read if you click over to the article. Those comments weren’t considered to be quite as inflammatory by the writer (Daniel Brown), who describes Davis as “clearly joking” when he said that Briggs couldn’t check him.

As for the comments above, Davis is only saying what everyone else can see by watching five minutes of Bears football: there isn’t anything spectacular about their front line. The Bears are 21st in the league against the run (119.5 yards per game) and they have a pedestrian 16 sacks on the season despite having played teams like Green Bay, Seattle, Detroit, and Cleveland, none of whom are particularly adept at protecting their quarterbacks.

The comments that will get the Bears all riled up are, of course, Davis’ claim that they can “destroy” their front and that Adewale Ogunleye is the “only player I like” on the defensive line.

Will it matter come Thursday night? Who the hell really knows. Maybe a very small, little bit at the beginning of the game. It might have the Bears charged up a smidgen more early on than they’d otherwise be.

In reality though, these types of stories are always hyped up to be way bigger than they really are as the game-long impact of comments like these are always overblown.

Ultimately, I think the Bears-49ers game will be a great, physical, hotly-contested game, but not because Vernon Davis made some candid, confident remarks. It will be a great game because both of these teams are struggling and have their backs up against the wall when it comes to playoff contention. This is a game that both teams need and they will scratch and claw to get it.

All Vernon Davis assured for himself with his comments is that he might get popped one or two times when he otherwise might not have, or hit a little bit harder than usual.

Big whoop. Just like his comments.

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* – Vernon Davis photo credit: Orlando Sentinel

The Bears defensive problems were yet again exploited today by Arizona and their potent offensive game. Kurt Warner threw for 5 TD passes, which tied a career high for the 38-year old.

The Cardinals came into the game without Anquan Boldin, but that didn’t slow down the team at all. Larry Fitzgerald had nine catches for 123 yds and two touchdowns, while Steve Breaston also tallied a TD catch. It was all Arizona in the first half as Warner had four TDs and Arizona went into the half with a 31-7  lead.

The Bears’ defense looked like a high school defense in the first half as they couldn’t stop the Cardinals’ run or passing game. The Cardinals scored on every drive they had in the first 30 minutes.

It was embarrassing to watch the Bears get manhandled on their own turf, and the fans let them know that by booing after every Arizona TD.

The Bears just don’t seem to improve much week after week, although the offense did perform relatively well, especially in the second half.

An interception thrown by Matt Leinart was returned by Zack Bowman for 39 yards and led to a TD throw form Jay Cutler to Greg Olsen, who had three TD catches in the game. The score was then 34-21 with 9:06 left in the 4th quarter. It seemed like the Bears could pull off a comeback.

The comeback stalled, however, after Cutler threw an interception, although it was not his fault. Culter thought Earl Bennett would continue his route and did not have any more time to hold onto the ball. He threw the ball Bennett’s way but Bennett, instead of continuing his route, stopped and the ball was easily picked off.

That would seal the game in Arizona’s favor.

The Bears wasted a great performance by Cutler, one made all the more impressive by the constant duress he found himself under. He was sacked four times and hit on almost every drive. You could see the frustration on Cutler’s face after his O-line was unable to protect him.

As for the defense, this is not close to the defense that we saw the year the Bears went to the Super Bowl. Something needs to change and fast because it’s looking like the Bears are going to miss the playoffs for the third straight year.

The next few weeks are not in Chicago’s favor. The Bears play the 49ers, Eagles, and the Vikings the next three weeks. Those are some very tough matchups. Unless the Bears change the game plan defensively, which I don’t see them doing, I am betting that they lose at least two out of those three games.

NOTE: Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris was ejected very early in the 1st quarter for clearly hitting Card’s offensive tackle Deuce Lutui.

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* – Jay Cutler photo credit: Nuccio DiNuzzo / Tribune via ChicagoBreakingSports.com

Another great week of NFL action: the Colts won (but looked human), the Saints continue to roll, and the Giants continue to spiral out of control.

It seems like every week brings more drama to the stage during what has been a very exciting season thus far that we are now halfway through.

One thing is for sure….THE REDSKINS DIDN’T LOSE THIS WEEK! (But the Browns did!)

[Editor's Note: There you go dick Myles. Keep rubbing salt in the wound jackass buddy. Keep kicking Browns fans when they're down you no talent ass clown my friend.

I can't wait until Peyton Manning retires and your one-man franchise returns to sucking and all of its fair-weather fans go away.  Go ahead, shake your head. But you know it's true.]

Now, onto this week’s Power Rankings.

1. New Orleans Saints (Last 2 [+1])

The Saints once again flip-flop into first place again with a big win against division rival Atlanta.

Rushing TD’s, Defensive TDs, Passing TDs…this team scores however they want to, and it seems that if they score less than 30, its a debacle.

We may be heading toward an Indy-New Orleans Superbowl, and that makes me giddy.

[Editor's Note: Readers, please raise your hand if you give a crap what makes Big MB "giddy"? In fact, raise your hand if you are explicitly disturbed by the mention of Big MB being "giddy"? Ah, unanimous agreement. Just as I suspected.

You know Myles, there are Browns, Rams, Lions, and Chiefs fans reading this post who don't need to have it shoved in their faces that the two teams you root for are undefeated. What the hell have you done to deserve such a charmed NFL existence?

So shove it and go giddy yourself off on some other blog.

I hate the NFL.

Moving on, in honor of that kickass picture I found of Drew Brees and Alfonso Ribiero (aka Carlton Banks) I've chosen "It's Not Unusual" by Tom Jones as this week's Power Ranking theme song. Enjoy.]

2. Indianapolis Colts (Last 1 [-1])

Indy and Peyton Manning looked somewhat average on the offensive side of the ball this week, but the defense and special teams stepped up and prevented Indy from its first loss against the 49ers with an 18-14 victory.

Minus the 60-yard touchdown run by Frank Gore, the defense was spectacular, with two very crucial sacks of 49ers QB Alex Smith in the closing minutes of the game. On top of that, they are now the NFL’s #1 rated defense in points allowed, which in the end, is the only stat on defense that truly matters.

Not unlike the Saints, the Colts are proving that they can win in several different ways, even if it is a halfback option pass to win the game.

[Editor's Note: Blah, blah, blah. The Colts' run ends once they face New England. Mark it down.]

3. Minnesota Vikings (Last 5 [+2])

Brett Favre must be feeling good. Yes, he beat his old team on MNF in Minnesota, but this one meant more. This one was in Lambeau.

Favre came out on fire, throwing for four touchdowns and no interceptions. Jared Allen is definitely a beast at DE; on one play, Green Bay didn’t even bother to block him en route to one of Minny’s six sacks on Aaron Rodgers.

[Editor's Note: Wait a minute...who the hell just said they don't know who Carlton Banks is and that they don't understand the Tom Jones reference? Are you serious? Damn this new generation is deprived. Just watch below and it will all make sense, and then find out what channel in your area shows reruns of The Fresh Price of Bel-Air. You'll thank me.]

4. New England Patriots (Last 4 [0])

The Pats were on bye this week, but with the Jets’ losing effort against Miami, they have improved their standing in the AFC East. As much as I hate to admit it, this team is dangerous. If they can stay healthy, they will be a major contender come time for the playoffs.

[Editor's Note: Way to be objective and give everyone equal time Myles. You write a book about the Colts and Saints, then we get to the Patriots and get three totally uninspired, generic sentences. I can't wait until they beat Indy and you have to rank them above the Colts. It's coming...soon.]

5. Denver Broncos (Last 3 [-2])

Finally, a chink in the armor of what was seeming to become an AFC Beast.

Denver lost to the Ravens 30-7, and now, all of those nay-sayers can say “I told you so.”

However, I am not jumping off the bandwagon. This team is still 6-1, plays in a soft division, and will be a pest in the playoffs, perhaps still even achieving a first round bye if they can bounce back from this loss.

Don’t sell Denver yet, it’s just one game.

6. Cincinnati Bengals (Last 6 [0)

Cincy was on bye this week, and apparently, that is the only way anyone can keep Chad Ochocinco out of the endzone.

Cincy remains tied atop the AFC North with the Steelers, and have a very important divisional matchup this week against Baltimore, who is coming off of a big win against denver.

7. Pittsburgh Steelers (Last 7 [0])

Pittsburgh was on bye this week, and remains tied for the lead in the AFC North with the aforementioned Bengals; however, consider them a half game behind Cincy because of a loss to the Bengals earlier in the season.

Pittsburgh is traveling to Denver for a monumental matchup on MNF this week. Denver is coming off of an embarrassing loss to the Ravens and will be looking for revenge on Big Ben and the Steelers.

[Editor's Note: Thinking about Denver, Cincinnati, and Pittsburgh -- three solid teams, yes, but none of whom will be making the Super Bowl this year -- has me bored. So how 'bout a little more Carlton Banks?

Ask and you shall receive...]

8. Philadelphia Eagles (Last 13 [+5])

Don’t look now, but here come Donovan McNabb and the Eagles.

McNabb has potentially the biggest surprise of the NFL season in big play specialist DeSean Jackson, a guy that he can throw and hand off to, and he has done just that. Jackson still maintains the impressive stat that all of his touchdowns are of 50 yards or more.

The Eagles are tied for the NFC East lead with Dallas, and will host the ‘Boys in Philly this week with the division lead on the line.

9. Dallas Cowboys (Last 14 [+5])

I’m still not buying the Cowboys, despite their jump in my Power Rankings this week, which was probably due more to the poor play of the teams they moved past than their dominant victory over an injury-ravaged Seattle team.

Next week will be a big match in Philly against the Eagles for the division lead.

Keep this in mind as you jump on the Cowboys bandwagon, and eventually crown them prematurely: Wade Phillips is still their coach, and Tony Romo is still their quarterback; and unfortunately, December is coming.

10. Houston Texans (Last 15 [+5])

Well, apparently the Texans coaching staff has no love lost for fumbles. Running back Steve Slayton was benched in favor of back-up Ryan Moats who ended up with over 120 yards and three touchdowns.

Houston continues to play very well, and I hate to say it, but I told you so. Houston is 5-3 and will head to division leading, undefeated Indianapolis, for what may be the Texans’ biggest game of the season so far.

[Editor's note: For what "may be" their biggest game of the season? It's clearly their biggest game of the season, and very well might be the biggest game thus far in their franchise's history. Too bad them they won't have Owen Daniels for the rest of the season. Big loss, akin to Indy losing Dallas Clark.]

11. Atlanta Falcons (Last 11 [0])

The Falcons put up a fight against the Saints, but in the end it just wasn’t enough as they drop to three games back of the NFC South lead. Mike Smith and the Falcons still have a great team, and they could still make a push into the playoffs. Stay tuned, and don’t sell this team just yet.

[Editor's note: A "great" team? If that's true, then how do you have them below the Cowboys, who you claim to not be "buying". Come on Colts boy. Where's the consistency???]

12. New York Giants (Last 8 [-4])

Only just a few short weeks after they were tied with the Colts for #1 in my Power Rankings, I am screaming to sell the Giants.

Something is wrong in New York, very wrong.

Eli has regressed in production and decision making, and looks as confused as St. Louis did when they realized they had won last weekend against Detroit.

Better step up Giants, or you may find yourself out of the Power Rankings next week, and worse, out of the playoff race.

[Editor's Note: I'll agree with you there. As great and prestigious as your Power Rankings are, I do believe it would be far worse for the Giants to fall out of the playoff race than the rankings. But they will, of course, go hand in hand.]

13. Green Bay Packers (Last 9 [-4])

Green Bay gave a valiant effort in the closing minutes against Brett Favre and the Vikings in Favre’s triumphant return to Lambeau. The biggest concern in Cheeseland is protecting Aaron Rodgers. You just can’t allow six sacks a game and expect to win.

[Editor's Note: You also can't allow the best player in your franchise history, and one of the top 10-15 QBs in the NFL, to get away and play against you, in your division. But that's a topic for another day...]

14. Baltimore Ravens (Last Not Ranked)

Baltimore makes their way back into this week’s top 15 with a convincing win against the previously undefeated Broncos.

The Ravens’ defense held the Broncos to just seve points, and forced QB Kyle Orton out of his comfort zone, making him to throw the ball downfield.

The Ravens are fighting an uphill battle though, with the Steelers and Bengals playing great football.

15. Chicago Bears (Last Not Ranked)

The Bears make it back in to the top 15 this week with a convincing win over Cleveland.

Yes, It’s Cleveland, but still, with Arizona’s loss to the Panthers, I couldn’t fathom leaving them in the Rankings when they were barely there before.

The question on a weekly basis in Chicago is, which Jay Cutler will show up this week?

[Editor's note: You must not have watched the Bears-Browns game. It was the least impressive 30-6 win I've ever seen. Chicago did not look good at all; Cleveland is just that bad. You are right that the Bears need Cutler to step it up, but he looks really out of sync right now.]

This Week’s Biggest Winner

Philadelphia Eagles +5, Dallas Cowboys +5, Houston Texans +5

This Week’s Biggest Loser

Arizona Cardinals (Out of the Top 15), New York Giants -4

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* – Drew Brees / Alfonso Ribiero photo credit: CakeRocksTheParty.Wordpress.com

Last Sunday for the Bears was nowhere near fun.

It wasn’t fun for the players, coaches, or the fans, and I was disgusted by the Bears just plain awful playing. Their weaknesses were heavily exposed by the Bengals in a game game that showed something needs to be fixed and fast.

The running game has still not come alive, and I don’t know who to blame. Is it the offensive line, the coaches, or Matt Forte? I am guessing it’s a combination of all of them.

The Bears are changing the O-line this Sunday against the Browns. Josh Beekman will take Frank Omiyale’s place at left guard. The management must see that a change needed to be made, and I have to agree with them. A change does need to be made or this team will fall behind Green Bay fast.

Jerry Angelo, the Bears general manager, said there will be some changes made for Sunday’s game.

“I don’t want to go too far into this, but certainly there are things that need to be corrected and things that we need to do better,” Angelo said. “Do we need to look at some personnel? Yeah, we do.

“There’s some of that going on as you’ll see Sunday. But we can’t overreact. I feel very confident that Lovie [Smith] and his staff see that and will get the wrongs righted. We’re going to focus on what we can control, and that’s Sunday’s game against Cleveland.”

It couldn’t be a better time in the season to play the miserable Cleveland Browns. If you thought the Bears had problems just have a look at Cleveland. They have a even worse O-line than the Bears, virtually have no offense, and their defense is just plain bad. All those factors have led to a non-stellar 1-6 record.

That’s good news for the struggling Bears. This is a perfect match-up to get confidence back up, and to start making some changes to play calling to hopefully get the ball back rolling. If there were any day for Forte to get over 100 yards rushing, this would be it.

The Bears have a chance to fix problems against a terrible team this Sunday. If they have any kind of trouble against Cleveland this Sunday I can tell you to stick a fork in the Bears cause there is no way this team would be going anywhere.

Hopefully that’s not the case. Bears play Sunday at 12pm cst.

Cleveland Browns @ Chicago Bears

NFL betting favorite: Bears -13.5

In the competitive NFC West the Bears simply can’t afford to fall behind any further, especially with their rival Vikings and Packers playing each other this week. Many bettors expected the Bears to win in Cincinnati this week; instead, they were absolutely humiliated by the Bengals, who lit them up for 45 points.

Luckily for the Monsters of the Midway, the Browns are the perfect remedy. Cleveland ranks dead last in the NFL in total defense, allowing 414.9 yards per game. The Browns’ passing attack is also totally anemic thanks to Derek Anderson, whom Eric Mangini keeps trotting out there. If the Bears can’t dominate this game, it’s time to really worry.

Bears-Browns Pick: Bears -13.5

New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles

NFL betting favorite: Eagles -2

The Giants arguably looked like the NFL’s best team through five weeks; suddenly, they’re on a losing streak. There’s no question the Giants have a strong passing game, great running game and good pass rush, but they’ve hit some surprisingly tough defenses against New Orleans and Arizona. Versus the swarming, big-play-oriented Eagles “D,” the problems may continue for Eli Manning. He’s been just OK in 10 career starts against the Eagles, tossing 12 touchdowns versus 10 interceptions.

Donovan McNabb, on the other hand, has 16 career games – one full season – against the Giants in his career and has a 20:5 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Against a depleted Giants secondary, he and the Eagles have the edge.

Eagles-Giants Pick: Eagles -2

Minnesota Vikings @ Green Bay Packers

NFL betting favorite: Packers -3

Well, well, well. Looks like the Vikings aren’t totally invincible after all. The savvy online betting player realized that last week’s tilt with Pittsburgh was Minnesota’s first outdoor game since Week 1. The Vikes opened against the Browns and enjoyed cushy dome matchups against the Lions and Rams along the way too. Can Brett Favre legitimize the Vikings again by going into Green Bay and winning a tough road game?

I think not. The Packer pass defense is decent and capable of making big plays; look for them to rebound from a poor performance earlier this season versus Favre. Also, the Viking secondary is missing Antoine Winfield and Aaron Rodgers already torched them for 384 yards in this season’s other meaning. Don’t underestimate the Pack just like you shouldn’t underestimate Philadelphia’s World Series odds.

Packers-Vikings Pick: Packers -3

Adams had been a ‘07 1st round draft pick from Clemson, but he did not meet the expectations the Bucs had for him.

In five games this season Adams has 14 tackles and one sack. Adams will likely play against the Falcons Sunday because defensive linemen Anthony Adams and Israel Idonije are dealing with injuries, but the Bears still need to cut a man from their roster to make room for Gaines Adams.

It’s unclear to me how this will work out for the Bears. They gave up a 2nd round pick for Adams so that tells me they have some high expectations for him. Maybe a different team will spark the fire under Adams.

The Bears play the Falcons Sunday night at 7:20pm cst. The defense will have to be up to par against this powerful Falcons offense, lead by 2nd year QB Matt Ryan. Bears’ fans are hoping to see Cutler get it done this game. He has done so well the last 3 games, only throwing 1 interception after that horrid opening game against the Packers.

Another interesting week of NFL football and it’s time to see how the top 15 teams in the NFL stack up.

It should come as no surprise that last week’s top two stayed in the same spots this weekend.

(Hint: both teams have Archie Manning’s sons calling the signals!)

After the jump, check out my current top 15 and then chime in with your comments/disagreements in the comment section.

T-1. New York Giants (Last 1 [No Change])

Yet another blow-out win for the Giants, this time against a California Highschool team, the Oakland Raiders. Eli Manning is looking like he may challenge his older brother for MVP, and Ahmad Bradshaw had a coming out party with nearly 100 yards and 2 TDs. This WR corps looks pretty fast, and they all make great catches. Big matchup heading to New Orleans next week.

T-1. Indianapolis Colts (Last 1 [No Change])

Normally I would focus on how awesome Peyton Manning has been playing, and after his fifth straight 300+ yard game, Manning looks like he may just get that record-setting 4^th MVP.

But I want to talk about the defense. For a defense that supposedly can’t stop the run and was missing four starters at that, they held Chris Johnson, the league’s current leader in rushing yards, to only 34 yards, while holding the entire Tennessee offense to only 9 points.

Austin Collie had a huge outing as yet another target for Manning, and one must ask themselves as the Colts move into the bye, what will happen when Gonzalez returns to the lineup?

3. New Orleans Saints (Last 3 [No Change])

Not much to report after a bye week, but there is a HUGE match-up and possible NFC championship game preview coming to town as Eli Manning comes into New Orleans. Drew Brees is the third cog in what seems to be a three-way race for MVP, and there is no doubt that the winner of this week’s game will find themselves in sole possession of first place in my power rankings with the Colts on bye.

4. Minnesota Vikings (Last 4 [No Change])

Somewhere John Madden is still endlessly repeating the words “Brett Favre”.

In his first game after turning 40, Favre once again proved he has still got it as he improved his team to 5-0.

The defense is forcing turnovers, the offense is scoring, and this team is clicking on all cylinders.

5. Denver Broncos (Last 5 [No Change])

Last week I got a lot of hell for putting Denver at #5. Well maybe now you guys will listen to me. After Denver’s fourth quarter drive to tie the game, Denver kicked a field goal in overtime to beat New England and propel themselves to 5-0.

Brandon Marshall has really started to open up his game and show the NFL what he is truly capable of producing. Denver is the real deal, get over it.

By the way, Denver, please…..PLEASE….don’t EVER wear those jerseys again.

6. Atlanta Falcons (Last 9 [+3])

Atlanta came off of their bye week and completely THROTTLED NFC hopeful San Fransico with a 45-10 victory.

Matt Ryan continues to impress, and for the first time this season, Michael Turner has finally started to produce for this team. Atlanta may just give the Saints a run for their money in the NFC South.

7. Cincinnati Bengals (Last 10 [+3])

Who would have believed that five weeks into the season, the Bengals would have a one game lead on both Baltimore and Pittsburgh in the AFC North? Or that Cincy would drive late in the 4th quarter and score a touchdown to shock the Baltimore Ravens with a 17-15 victory?

Carson Palmer is healthy, and that is scary.

8. Philadelphia Eagles (Last Not Ranked)

Donovan McNabb is back. Boy is he ever back.

McNabb was 16/21 for 264 yards and three touchdowns on Sunday in a 33-14 dismantling of Tampa Bay.

If any one was questioning whether or not there would be a QB controversy in Philly, McNabb definitely answered your question this weekend with a resounding “NO!”

9. New York Jets (Last 11 [-2])

Although the loss to Miami was disappointing, it was a great game, and more specifically, a great 4^th quarter.

The good news for New York is that Sanchez had a great game after his debacle against the Saints.

Even more good news?

Braylon Edwards was amazing. He had at least two amazing catches to go along with his 5 catches for 64 yards and one touchdown.

I say this again Jets fans. Keep hope alive you are still tied for the lead in the AFC East.

10. New England Patriots (Last 6 [-4])

New England was shocked this past weekend by the Denver Broncos in a 17-14 overtime loss, after a Matt Prater kick.

Randy Moss has become a non-issue as Moss’ biggest reception of the day was an interception in the closing minutes of the first half. If NE wants to get back to where they were, they must once again establish the run with Morris and Maroney, but most of all they must establish the deep threat once again of Randy Moss.

11. Baltimore Ravens (Last 7 [-4])

Two big losses in a row drop the Ravens from first in my Power Rankings to not even in the top ten.

After a loss to the “Bungles” (The Cincinnati Bengals), the Ravens now drop to 3-2 in a two-way tie for second place in the AFC North.

Not sure what is going on with these guys, but they need to figure it out before they find themselves watching the playoffs from home.

The Ravens must re-establish their run game and get this defense back up to the level they are used to play on.

12. San Francisco 49ers (Last 8 [-4])

Finally, a gut check for the NFC’s Cinderella team. San Francisco was dominated at home by Matt Ryan and the Atlanta Falcons.

ATL routed the upstart 49ers 45-10 in San Fransisco.

Although this is a tough loss San Fran still has a great team. Gore will be returning soon, and let us not forget, they are in a weak division with Seattle, Arizona, and St. Louis.

13. Chicago Bears (Last 12 [-1])

The Bears are on bye this week, but Minnesota won again improving their mark to 5-0. The Bears must stay on their game if they want to remain in contention for the NFC Playoffs.

14. Green Bay Packers (Last 15 [+1])

Much the same as Chicago, the Packers spent the weekend at home watching the games on NFL Sunday Ticket. Minnesota is 5-0 now, Better step it up!

15. Pittsburgh Steelers (Last 14 [-1])

I think the Steelers are here again this week, mainly by default. How do you almost throw away a game vs. Detroit???

There are some definite holes in Pittsburgh’s game, and I can only assume they are looking forward with baited breath for the return of their leader, Troy Polamalu.

This Week’s Biggest Winner

Philadelphia Eagles

This Week’s Biggest Loser

New England Patriots/Baltimore Ravens/San Fransisco 49ers

This week, we have our first ever tie in the Power Rankings. I had a real tough decision choosing who would be first and who would be second so there is a tie for first place.

T-1. New York Giants (Last 6 [+5])

Ok, so Archie Manning must be sitting at home smiling at both of his boys who will tie for 1^st in Big MB’s Power Rankings for Week 5.

Obviously, the Giants don’t miss Plaxico Burress one bit. The G-men’s destruction of Kansas City only showcased Manning and his receivers. Smith and Manningham continue to impress and Brandon Jacobs is the beast of the NFC East. Next week is a HUGE NFC power game as the Saints come to town.

[Editor's Note: it's Big MB writing this column...any guess who the other 4-0 team is that he has tied for first? It shouldn't take more than one...]

T-1. Indianapolis Colts (Last 3 [+2])

Can Peyton get any better?

Manning has had 4 straight games of 300+ yards for the first time in his career. Joseph Addai and Donald Brown are starting to look like an unstoppable backfield tandem, both rushing for a touchdown a piece in Indy’s dismantling of Seattle. And worst of all for other teams in the NFL, this defense under Larry Coyer is looking like somewhat of an immovable object.

Until the slop minutes of the matchup with Seattle when Indy had their 3^rd string in, the Colts held Seattle to only 3 points, after holding an explosive Arizona offense to only 10. Next Week presents an interesting match up against 0-4 Tennessee.

3. New Orleans Saints (Last 2 [-1])

For the second straight week, Drew Brees didn’t throw one touchdown, but the Saints continue to roll as they took down the heavily favored Jets of New York. The defense had two touchdowns, and Pierre Thomas put one in on the ground. This team seams to be able to win games just about any way they want. Next week is a huge match up as they travel to New York to battle it out with the also undefeated Giants.

4. Minnesota Vikings (Last 5 [+1])

Brett Favre came out in a fury and never looked back in this game. The Vikings defense looked as good as ever putting Aaron Rodgers on his back very often, and more importantly have established that teams can no longer put 8 or 9 in the box against Peterson. Favre is really clicking with this team now, which is very scary for all of those in the NFC North.

5. Denver Broncos (Last 10 [+5])

O.K., I can admit when I am wrong. I was dead wrong. This Denver team may be more of a contender than I had previously thought. Although they looked stale early at home against Dallas, a late touchdown catch by Brandon Marshall, highlighted by a great run after the catch and horrible tackling by Dallas, then a redzone stand by the defense and Denver is now 4-0. Interesting.

6. New England Patriots (Last 12 [+6])

Don’t look now, but here come the Patriots. Another scary moment for Pat fans when Brady went to the locker room, but he came back to lead his team to a victory against a very tough Baltimore team. As much as I hate giving the Pats credit, they are playing better, and now have beaten two very tough teams, and are in a two-way tie in the AFC East with the Jets.

7. Baltimore Ravens (Last 1 [-6])

After a disappointing loss to New England, Baltimore takes a significant drop in my Power Rankings, but not necessarily because of their play, but more because of the play of the teams that moved ahead of them. Baltimore is still one of the best teams in the league, but now find themselves in a two-way tie for the lead in the AFC North with surprise Cinderella Cincinnati.

8. San Fransico 49ers (Last 13 [+5])

Along with Cincy, the 49ers seem to be putting together a Cinderella season after their 35-0 dismantling of St. Louis, who seems to be just awful. No Frank Gore? No problem. Shaun Hill seems to be making a name for himself as a legitimate QB in this league. Now, if only they could get this whole Crabtree thing under wraps, this team could possible be very dangerous.

9. Atlanta Falcons (Last 7 [-2])

Not much to report here, Atlanta was on a bye week after a tough loss to New England, so they take a little hit on their rankings, just due to inactivity, but at least they didn’t completely fall off like the Eagles.

10. Cincinnati Bengals (Last 11 [+1])

The Bengals still remain somewhat of an NFL Cinderella, now 3-1 and tied with the Ravens for first in the AFC North, perhaps football’s most brutal division. They did struggle against a weak Browns team, but a win is a win. Chad Ochocinco and Carson Palmer seem to have put aside their differences, Ochocinco had 2 TD’s in this game.

11. New York Jets (Last 4 [-7])

Remember last week when I told you that I was hesitant to put the Jets very high in my rankings, due to the fact that they were led by a rookie QB? Well, Sunday’s loss to the nothing-less-than-impressive Saints proved that Sanchez may not quite be ready to be the NFL MVP. Yes, he is an impressive rookie QB, but he will make mistakes, just as he did this week. Don’t sell your stock of this team just yet though, they are definitely still a contender.

12. Chicago Bears (Last 8 [-4])

It looked a little scary for the Bears early against the hungry Lions (cheesy I know), but the second half proved to be all Chicago as Jay Cutler and Company put it to Detroit and came away victorious to establish a 3-1 record. Matt Forte seems to be waking up as well, and this defense is playing quite well without its emotional and physical leader, Brian Unlacher.

13. Houston Texans (Last Not Ranked)

Those who know me know that I am very high on the Houston Texans this year. I predicted them to make the playoffs, and even possibly challenge the vaunted Colts for the AFC South Title. I’m not quite sure they will challenge the Colts with the way that Indy is playing, but Matt Schaub is a very, very good QB, and it doesn’t hurt to be throwing passes to a beast like Andre Johnson. Oh yeah, Steve Slaton decided to show up to the party too.

Keep your eyes on the Texans, it just may be their time to shine.

14. Pittsburgh Steelers (Last 15 [+1])

The Steelers got off to a great start against the Chargers, but somehow almost tried to give the game away in the 4^th quarter. They did hold on to win 38-28, but there may be concern in how they let the Chargers back in this one. The one positive the Steel City fans can take from this is Rashard Mendenhall. Pittsburgh finally found a run game with Mendenhall having over 160 yards and 2 TD’s.

15. Green Bay Packers (Last 9 [-6])

This week, the Pack made the top 15 because there really weren’t too many other choices I liked better. Minnesota exposed this poor offensive line again. If Green Bay wants to have a franchise quarterback, they had better work to protect him better. The Pack has a lot of work to do, and they will be climbing an uphill battle with Minnesota and Chicago looking so good in this division.

This Week’s Biggest Winner

New England Patriots (+6) – Just when you thought they were done….don’t look now here comes the Pats.

This Week’s Biggest Loser

New York Jets (-7) – I warned Jets fans to be aware of the Rookie. He is a good player, but he is a rookie. But don’t worry Jet fans, you still have a great team, and a good chance at the playoffs.

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You can follow Big MB on twitter @ www/twitter.com/mylesb3269

Be sure to check in every Tuesday for Big MB’s NFL Power Rankings, every Wednesday for “I’ll Tell You This” and every week to the MSF podcast!!!

It appears that the city of Chicago, the Chicago Bears, and the Chicago Park District have been in talks about where to locate a statue to the one and only Chicago Bear that I ever cheered for: one Walter “Sweetness” Payton.

Many issues have come to light. It appears that the park district does not want to put it outside of Soldier Field as they feel that it will take away from the stadium and how it is a tribute to the Armed Services. I find that ironic after the remodeling job. The Payton family and foundation agree and have openly stated that they would never want to take away from the Service men and woman.

So, maybe outside but close to the stadium?

We all know that Michael Jordan has his statue outside of the United Center, which is privately owned. I was born and raised in Chicago and the loyalty that the city has to its beloved sports stars in second too none. So, why not honor the man who played so many years on crappy teams, who finally got to a Super Bowl and did not even score a touchdown, all without one complaint?

Now that is a team player!

I would ask you please check out The Walter and Connie Payton website for more information. HERE

Thank you Walter for all those great years.

Thank you Connie for what you and the family continue to do in Walter’s name.

[Editor's note: Today we introduce a new weekly feature here at MSF, courtesy of Big MB, our soon-to-be renowned NFL expert and already renowned teller of "this".

Every week around this time, Big MB will be checking in with his NFL Power Rankings. He goes 1-15 and gives you the low down on the NFL's best teams.

Bold prediction: the Cleveland Browns and Miami Dolphins will not be making it into Big MB's first list.

Find out after the jump.]

1. Baltimore Ravens

For years now, the Ravens have made their name on defense. Although it may not be the best defense in the NFL anymore, it is still one of the best, and one of the most physical.

By the way, Baltimore has an offense to go with that defense now, second in points scored, only to the Saints. Watch out for Joe Flacco, he may be a legend forming right front of our eyes.

2. New Orleans Saints

Even when Drew Brees doesn’t throw a touchdown, this team still puts up 27 and wins by 20. Who do you stop? Brees, Colston, Henderson, Thomas, Bush, Shockey? Good luck keeping this team out of the playoffs, and the record books.

3. Indianapolis Colts

Peyton Manning is like a fine wine. He gets better with age.

All of the skeptics said without Marvin Harrison and Anthony Gonzalez that the Colts offense would go stale. Well they were wrong. With the emergence of Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie, and of course Dallas Clark, this team seams to be hitting on all cylinders.

Oh by the way, the defense is getting pretty darn good after holding the prolific Cardinals to just 10 points.

4. New York Jets

This may be the surprise of the year, and the only reason they aren’t higher in my rankings is, ironically, the same reason they are as high as they are: Mark Sanchez. The rookie has displayed nothing but poise since he was named the starter for the Jets. The team seems to rally around him, and they all seem to love him.

But, he is just a rookie. This team is dangerous, but Sanchez will make mistakes as the year progresses. Big matchup coming up this week against the Saints.

5. Minnesota Vikings

From new to old…I would like to say to all of the nay-sayers, What do you have to say about Favre now?

His last two games have been very Favre-like, and he has thrown 5 touchdowns to one interception. The best RB in the league lines up behind him, and that can’t hurt the situation.

This week’s matchup has Favre playing his old team Green Bay, this time with #4 in evil purple. Expect this one to be a nasty game. Favre has something to prove to his former organization.

6. New York Giants

No Plaxico? No problem. Steve Smith and Mario Manningham have more than made up for hole left by Plaxico. (Maybe not so much the one in his leg, but oh well.)

Eli has gotten his confidence back, and Jacobs will continue to bruise every defender that steps in his way. The NFC East is their division to lose this year.

7. Atlanta Falcons

How good is Matt Ryan? He’s another youngster playing like a veteran. He did look a little confused against the Patriots this past week, but hell, this is his second year. Great coaching, great play calling, great players….Atlanta should walk away with the NFC South this year.

8. Chicago Bears

Jay Cutler seems to finally be settling down in Chicago, and that can’t be a good thing for anyone in the NFC North. This is a tough division though, with Minnesota and Green Bay both hanging their hats on forcing turnovers. Cutler will have to watch his “gunslinging” and focus and a short surgical passing game. Devin Hester is proving to be a good WR, and though he still needs work, he’s not just a kick returner anymore.

9. Green Bay Packers

It was really tough to decide between Green Bay and Chicago this week. The Pack’s defense has been nothing less than stout during the course of the 2009 season, and has come up with big turnovers when needed.

I’m not completely sold on Aaron Rodgers, and I flat out don’t like Ryan Grant, but Jennings and Driver make one hell of a combination down field. Guess what…Mr.  Favre is coming to town on Monday Night Football this week!

10. Denver Broncos

Of all seven 3-0 teams, I like the Broncos the least. At best they should be 2-1, if it were not for the miraculous deflection that WR Brandon Stokley took to the house in the closing seconds of week one. My confidence doesn’t grow in them that much considering their other two wins were over extremely weak teams. They are, as of right now, without a doubt pretenders.

11. Cincinnati Bengals

On the other side of things, are the Cincinnati Bengals, the victims of the “Immaculate Deflection” against the Broncos. The Bengals beat the World Champion Steelers, and very well could be 3-0, and sitting pretty in perhapsthe toughest division in football, except for the Browns. (Sorry JRod)

[Editor's Note: Got to hell Myles.  Only I can diss on the Browns on this site!]

12. New England Patriots

The Patriots should be 1-2 and not even on this Power Rankings list. But this past Sunday, we saw Tom Brady and New England start to play like the team the experts said they would be. I still think they are on the decline, and with the emergence of the Jets, perhaps may not even make the playoffs for a second straight season.

13. San Fransico 49ers

The 49ers are definitely my dark-horse NFC team this year. The bad news is that Frank Gore could be missing 4-6 weeks. The good news is that the 49ers play in the weak NFC west. If they could sign Michael Crabtree, there is a possibility that they could make a playoff run.

14. Philadelphia Eagles

McNabb’s ribs are still a major problem, but Kevin Kolb has played phenomenally. We now understand why Andy Reid drafted this kid, even though he already had one of the top 5 QB’s in the league. I don’t believe that the Eagles are in too much trouble, but they need a healthy Brian Westbrook.

15. Pittsburgh Steelers

Well, who would have though the Champs would start out 1-2?

After a tough loss to Cincy, I flirted with not even mentioning them in my top 15. But it was them or Dallas, and when you have to put a game away on MNF, at home, in your new stadium, in the closing minutes, against a bad Carolina team, you don’t deserve to make the top 15.

So congrats Pittsburgh, you made it here by default. You may want to step up your game though. Last time I checked, Baltimore is pretty good, and now you’ve lost a division game to Cincinnati.

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You can follow BigMB on twitter at www.twitter.com/mylesb3269

Be sure to check out the weekly MSF podcast with JRod and BigMB on the MNF preview, and available for download on iTunes!!!!

The Bears travel to Seattle to take on the Seahawks this weekend, in what should be a pretty good football showdown in the rainiest city in the USA.

Here is your quick-hit viewer’s guide and Jerod’s pick from this week’s NFL TV schedule and point spread post:

Chicago Bears (1-1) at Seattle Seahawks (1-1)

• Bears-Seahawks Date: Sunday, September 27th
• Bears-Seahawks Time: 4:05 ET
• Bears-Seahawks TV Network: Dick Stockton and Charles Davis
• Bears-Seahawks Announcers: FOX
• Bears-Seahawks Point Spread: Bears -2.5
• Bears-Seahawks Over-Under: 37
• Bears-Seahawks Pick by Jerod: Poor Matt Hasselbeck. He just can’t seem to stay healthy anymore. If he were healthy and playing, I think they’d be a good bet to win and certainly to cover 2.5 points. However, I think last week’s win was a big confidence builder for Jay Cutler and the Bears. And after seeing what Frank Gore did to Seattle last week, Matt Forte will no doubt be ready for his 2009 breakout game. I think he gets it, and I think the Bears win by a TD. Bears-Seahawks free spread pick: Bears -2.5 (for the record, I’m already re-thinking this one…Seattle is tough to beat at home. But the absence of Hasselbeck seals it. Bears, minus the points, final answer.)

Bears-Seahawks Analysis

The Bears are coming off of a spectactular and uplifting win against the defending Super Bowl champions, the Pittsburgh Steelers. The #1 question for the Bears right now is when will Matt Forte put up some decent numbers? So far Forte has been shut down, and is only averaging 2.2 yds per carry. There still isn’t any need to worry though because the two teams he played have very good run defenses.

The Seahawks are ranked 26th in the league in run defense. Forte is set up to run over 100 yards this Sunday. A good running game means less pressure on the QB, which will be greatly needed because Jay Cutler has his work cut out for him. The Seahawks pass defense is ranked 2nd in the league. Passing against this defense will be tough, but Forte can help significantly if he can find the holes the O-line setup.

Bears fans liked seeing Cutler bounce back in Week 2 after a horrid Week 1, but will this just be another Good-Cutler, Bad-Cutler deal? Just like what happened with Rex Grossman? Chicago fans sure hope not.

The new player to look for is rookie WR Johnny Knox. He has created a stir around the NFL for showing great speed and catching ability. The Bears could have found a sleeper in this kid. Keep an eye out for him.

The Seahawks might have lost Hasselback again due to a rib injury. If Hasselback doesn’t play, Seneca Wallace will start for Seattle. Wallace started some games last year, and isn’t that bad of a QB, but losing Hasselback is a huge loss for a team that heavily relies on their QB. Seattle might have to find a way to win without Hasselback, a task that might prove fatal.

The Seahawks best bet is their running game. While it’s not great, it has been consistent, averaging 116.5 yds per game. If the running game doesn’t get going it puts more pressure on the passing game, a section that already is weakened.

Bears-Seahawks prediction: the loss of Hasselback is just do much for the Seahawks to recover from. Bears win 21-14.

NFL Week 3 matchups are here already. Hard to believe how quickly the season is going. We’ve already seen a massive upset happen – how about those Bengals over the Packers? – and there could be an even bigger one on the horizon this weekend. Let’s make a few NFL picks.

San Francisco 49ers at Minnesota Vikings

Sunday, September 27, 1:00 p.m. ET

NFL betting favorite: Vikings -6.5

Here’s our chance to find out if San Francisco is truly for real. Frank Gore destroyed Seattle’s defense last week, racking up 207 rushing yards, but he faces the formidable Minnesota run defense led by Pat and Kevin Williams this week. If (when?) the Vikes stack the box and bottle up Gore, Shaun Hill will have to do more than caretake from the quarterback position. I’m not so sure he’s up to the task. San Fran’s “D” looks excellent under Mike Singletary but hasn’t faced a tailback anywhere close to Adrian Peterson’s caliber so far. Bet on Minnesota to cover.

Betting services recommend: Vikings -6.5

Washington Redskins at Detroit Lions

Sunday, September 27, 1:00 p.m. ET

NFL betting favorite: Redskins -6

Here’s your big shocker of the week. The Redskins are a superior team, of course, but they’re out of sorts. When you only beat the Rams 9-7 at home and score no touchdowns, how can you be a safe six-point favorite on the road against any team? Washington is struggling to pressure the quarterback, recording just two sacks in two games even after a matchup against Marc Bulger. That means Matt Stafford may have time to unleash some big throws to Calvin Johnson. The Lions can at least beat the spread and have a real shot to win outright.

Betting services recommend: Lions +6

Chicago Bears at Seattle Seahawks

Sunday, September 27, 4:15 p.m. ET

NFL betting favorite: Bears -1.5

After Matt Hasselbeck went down last week and Frank Gore trucked the Seahawks’ front seven, it’s a bit surprising that the Bears are only 1.5-point favorites. You’d think they’d be more popular choices after beating the defending Super Bowl champion Steelers. Jay Cutler found a groove against the Steelers and Matt Forte is itching to bust out. If Hasselbeck plays, he’ll still likely be ineffective playing through a broken rib. If he doesn’t, the Bears could rout the Seahawks.

Betting services recommend: Bears 1-.5

The Pittsburgh Steelers will play the Chicago Bears in Chicago, and what makes this one a must watch is to see how both teams’ defenses play without their defensive captains. The Bears are going to have to play without middle linebacker Brian Urlacher, and the Steelers are without Troy Polamalu.

With both teams not having their main man on defense, the QBs could have big games this Sunday.

Here are the particulars for this Sunday’s matchup:

Pittsburgh Steelers (1-0) at Chicago Bears (0-1)

• Steelers-Bears Date: Sunday, September 20
• Steelers-Bears Time: 4:15
• Steelers-Bears TV Network: CBS
• Steelers-Bears Announcers: Jim Nantz and Phil Simms
• Steelers-Bears Point Spread: Steelers -3.5
• Steelers-Bears Over-Under: 37.5
• StubHub: Steelers-Bears tickets as low as $130!

The Bears are coming off a very tough loss to the Packers, in which Jay Cutler threw four interceptions, but I see Cutler rebounding against this now weaker Steelers defense.

Despite the plethora of picks, Cutler’s day wasn’t all bad. He did connect with Hester for a touchdown, and he also connected with Johnny Knox. The throw to Knox was just beautiful, and it’s the Cutler I would like to see more of moving forward. The Bears have their work cut out for them again as they go against, arguably, the best defense in the NFL.

But are the Steelers that good without Polamalu?

My guess is yes.

This is still the dominant Steelers defense we saw last year win the Super Bowl. They will be very tough, but that doesn’t mean they are invincible.

The Bears’ defense can help the offense by playing well and making sure the Steelers defense doesn’t get much rest. Every defense needs rest, and one way to upset a good defense is to limit their rest time. The defense will be slower and that’s exactly what the Bears hope happens because that means Hester will be able to run all over the defense.

The Steelers, in the opener last Thursday, didn’t have much of a running game going on. They might not have to do much running this weekend if they can exploit the Bears pass defense. The Bears’ pass defense didn’t look bad last Sunday, but it still their weakest point. Nathan Vasher still gets beat every time he gets the ball thrown his way. I think he is a bust, but the coaches haven’t seen that yet.

My overall thought about this game is that the Steelers have the advantage, and for obvious reasons. They are the returning champions, they have a better defense, better coaching, better play calling, and a more consistent QB. With all these factors adding up, I don’t see the Bears winning this game.

But hey, prove me wrong Bears. I hope you do.

Brian Urlacher is reportedly out for the season, according to Vaughn McClure of The Chicago Tribune:

Brian Urlacher appears to be out for the season after dislocating his right wrist, the linebacker said Monday. The team has not given the official word, but Lovie Smith is expected to address the issue during his afternoon press conference.

This is obviously terrible news for the Bears and their fans and comes on the heels of a heart-breaking loss in Green Bay during which new QB Jay Cutler threw 4 INTs.

Urlacher, to describe him in completely cliched term, is the heart and soul of the Bears’ D. And even though the primary weakness in the current Bears defense appears to be in the secondary (and specifically cornerback Nathan Vasher), Urlacher’s athleticism and experience often helped to compensate for issues elsewhere.