Q&A With Bear Goggles On!
By Jamie Kelly
Across the fansided network each week during this season, we will be doing a quick Q&A with the Falcons’ opponents for that week. This week I had a chance to talk with Mike Burzawa from Bear Goggles On about this Sundays match up between the Falcons and Bears.
1. Who is an under the radar Bears player that Falcons fans might not know yet, but will definitely recognize after the game?
I think an under the radar guy might be tight end Kellen Davis. He’s got some big shoes to fill with Greg Olsen’s departure but his size and speed could factor into the passing game when Cutler gets in trouble. Honorable mention to Kahlil Bell, who will be backing up Matt Forte while Marion Barber is nursing a bum calf.
2. How good can the Bears be this season? Will their Defense be as formidable as last year?
It will be tough for the Bears to match their 2010 season. They had a lot of things break their way, especially health. If any of their key defenders misses any significant time, it could be a rough season for the Bears. Since the Falcons get the Bears in Week 1 at full strength, the Defense should be pretty stout. You guys haven’t seen Julius Peppers in the Navy and Orange, who should help put some pressure on Matty Ice.
3. Complete this sentence. The Falcons will beat the Bears if they…
Can exploit some mismatches in the secondary. The Julio Jones – Tim Jennings matchup scares the hell out of me as a Bears fan. Tony Gonzalez is still a mismatch with whichever nickelback or safety picks him up.
4. How about this one. The Bears can beat the Falcons if…
They pressure Matt Ryan. In the last 2 matchups, Ryan has dropped back 50+ times and the Bears have gotten exactly ZERO sacks. I expect the Bears to try to collapse the pocket, testing newcomers on the interior of the Falcons line and force the ball out of Ryan’s hand sooner than he’d like to get rid of it.
5. What’s your prediction for the game? Include the final score please.
I think the Bears find a way to get it done in their home opener. Matt Forte will be a force on the ground and through the air. Julius Peppers and Omobi Okoye each get a sack and a key turnover late give the Bears a win. Bears 24-20.
Check out my answers in our Q&A at Bear Goggles On.