Thursday 13 September 2012

3 Key Matchups for Thursday Night Football

3 Key Matchups for the Bears @Packers

Packers Secondary vs Themselves

The Packers secondary didn't play well in almost any department against the 49ers, but really killed themselves with broken coverages. While Alex Smith missed a couple of easy touchdowns, Jay Cutler will do a much better job of pulling the trigger downfield. The Packers' secondary is talented on paper, but will get destroyed if they lose organisation again.

Nick Perry vs J'Marcus Webb

Nick Perry came in to the season as a highly regarded rookie pass rusher, Webb as the league's most viciously maligned blindside protector. However, the narratives were reversed last week as Nick Perry looked totally lost in all phases, while J'Marcus Webb stonewalled the Colts in pass protection and graded the road for Matt Forte. Webb will have to contend with both Perry and Clay Matthews, so if he falters and Perry resurges, it could be a long day for Jay Cutler.

Jordy Nelson vs Tim Jennings

The Packers need Jordy Nelson to step up with Greg Jennings unlikely to play tonight. Unfortunately, he'll often be lined up opposite Bears corner Tim Jennings, who exploded onto the NFL stage against Indianapolis. Jennings has been underrated for some time, and the Bears will need him to be at his best to contend with the league's reigning MVP and his talented group of pass catchers.

My Pick for this game: The Bears. While Rodgers alone means the Packers can never be ruled out of any game, the Bears should benefit from having the superior defense and more balanced offensive unit.

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