NFL Predictions 2009: Bears Head Coach Lovie Smith enters his sixth season with the franchise this year, and he probably has his best offense since arriving in the Windy City. The addition of Jay Cutler at quarterback, as well as the development of younger players at the skill positions, gives Chicago an offensive look that it has not had in years. Sportsbetting.com apparently likes what the Bears have done as the team's season win total is set at 8.5 with the over drawing a -150 line in the bookmaker's Chicago Bears NFL Predictions 2009 – Super Bowl Odds 2010.
Jay Cutler complained long enough, hard enough, and openly enough that he finally got a ticket out of Denver. The Bears were happy to deal for the malcontent quarterback as he opens up a myriad of possibilities for their flagging offense. Granted, Kyle Orton was not horrific for the team last year, but he does not have the kind of ability that Cutler does.
Cutler, who threw for 4526 yards and 25 touchdowns last season, should make the Bears running game — which, despite Matt Forte, averaged just 105 yards per game a season ago — more effective. And he obviously adds a major component to the passing game given his ability to throw the deep ball as well as tight out routes. With some improved decision making, the Vanderbilt product should be a perennial Pro-Bowler.
Another positive is the fact that wideout Devin Hester appears to be on the verge of becoming a big weapon in the receiving game. Hester should be giddy about the deal for Cutler because the former Bronco will most assuredly boost the all-world return man's numbers, which were not too shabby even with Orton under center (51 receptions, 665 yards, three touchdowns).
The offensive line was also upgraded, with tackles Orlando Pace, who appears to be healthy heading into training camp, and Kevin Shaffer joining the team.
The Bears defense, in spite of its reputation as one of the best in the league, was medicore at best last year. They were solid against the run, holding teams to an average of 94 yards per game (3.4 yards per carry), but that was about all they did well. Chicago ranked 21st in yards allowed, 16th in points allowed, 30th in passing yards allowed, and 22nd in sacks.
Eleven starters return from the unit, including linebackers Lance Briggs and Brian Urlacher as well as defensive tackle Tommie Harris. They should benefit from a more capable offense, but they may need to find the fountain of youth to return some of those numbers to a respectable level.
The Bears start the season with a road trip to Lambeau Field. Their September 13th game with the Packers will the nationally televised Sunday Night Football feature.
Sportsbetting.com Chicago Bears NFL Predictions 2009 – Super Bowl Odds 2010
Chicago Bears Regular Season Win Total:
Over 8.5 (-150)
Under 8.5 (+120)
Chicago Bears Odds to Win the NFC North:
17 – 10
Chicago Bears Odds to Win the 2010 NFC Championship Game:
10 – 1
Chicago Bears Super Bowl Odds 2010:
20 – 1
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