Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears Preview

By J.E. | Saturday, September 17, 2005 | ( 0 )

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We don't usually start talking about key matchups and must-win games until much later in the season; but in an NFC North division that many experts have dismissed as mediocre, Sunday's contest between the Detroit Lions and the Chicago Bears is an important early-season test for both teams. Kickoff is set for 1 PM EST at Soldier Field.

The Detroit Lions beat Green Bay 17-3 in their home opener last week, and another win here would boost their record to 2-0 in the division. Joey Harrington went 15-of-28 for 167 yards and 2 touchdowns. If he can stay consistent against the Bears and avoid turning the ball over, it could be a long day for Chicago. Harrington will try to get the ball into the hands of wide receivers Roy Williams and rookie Mike Williams, who scored the first touchdown of his pro career on a 3-yard grab in the fourth quarter last week. Running back Kevin Jones rushed for 87 yards on 25 carries against the Packers and will look to add to those totals this week.

The Chicago Bears' offense only managed to gain 166 total yards in their loss to the Washington Redskins on Opening Day. The offense will come out and try to establish the running game right away. Cedric Benson, the team's first round draft pick, will likely see some more touches this week as the Chicago Bears ease him into the offensive scheme after a holdout that lasted nearly the entire preseason. Starting RB Thomas Jones, who gained only 31 yards last week, will have to improve on that performance in order for the Bears to have a shot in this game. Rookie QB Kyle Orton threw for 141 yards and had one pass picked off. He'll get the start again this week.

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