For a short while there this past weekend, I thought the Packers would continue with the same lack of road success that plagued them during the regular season last year (3 wins out of 8 games). However, like the defending champs they are, they managed to overcome a quick 10-point lead and held on to win against the Carolina Panthers.
For two straight weeks, the Packers have won in offensive battles thanks to a steady performance by quarterback Aaron Rodgers and a revitalized running game. This week, however, they face the Chicago Bears and, as a result, I think you’ll see their first real defensive battle of the season. Points won’t be easy to come by in Chicago and, if the Packers get off to a slow start like they did last week, I don’t think they will be able to rebound.
That being said, I like the Packers’ chances. Green Bay’s defense has given up a lot of yards. But, they have stood their ground when it counts and still have a very dangerous pass rush that should be able to get past a shaky offensive line to pressure Bears’ quarterback Jay Cutler and force him into making mistakes. Packers’ cornerback Charles Woodson had two interceptions against the Panthers on Sunday. Expect to see him grab at least one more when it matters.
Packers 19 – Bears 9
Other Predictions:
The New Orleans Saints will beat the Houston Texans
The New York Giants will beat the Philadelphia Eagles
The Carolina Panthers will beat the Jacksonville Jaguars
The New England Patriots will beat the Buffalo Bills
The Cleveland Browns will beat the Miami Dolphins
The San Francisco 49ers will beat the Cincinnati Bengals
The Tennessee Titans will beat the Denver Broncos
The Detroit Lions will beat the Minnesota Vikings
The Baltimore Ravens will beat the St. Louis Rams
The Oakland Raiders will beat the New York Jets
The San Diego Chargers will beat the Kansas City Chiefs
The Arizona Cardinals will beat the Seattle Seahawks
The Atlanta Falcons will beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Pittsburgh Steelers will beat the Indianapolis Colts
The Washington Redskins will beat the Dallas Cowboys
My Overall Record – 20-12 (.625)