Packers vs Bears Week One Preview

Last Years Matchups

In week 15, the Packers travelled to soldier field to take on the Bears. Although the game was tied going into the fourth quarter, the Bears outscored them 10-3 to win the game 24-17. The Bears clinched the division with that win and the Packers fell to 5-8-1.

Key Matchups

Aaron Rodgers vs Eddie Jackson and Kyle Fuller

Rodgers is known for not turning the ball over. The Bears have one of the best corner-safety combos in the NFL. The duo had 13 interceptions and two forced fumbles last season. It’ll be the matchup of a precise and accurate quarterback against two ball hawking defensive backs.

David Bakhtiari and Bryan Bulaga vs Khalil Mack

Khalil Mack caused a lot of trouble for the Packers last season. In the two games, he had nine tackles, 3.5 sacks, an interception, and a forced fumble. Bakhtiari is an all-pro left tackle and widely considered the best tackle in the game. Bulaga is a top-right tackle when healthy. It’ll be a clash of the titans with either matchup and the key to winning could be determined here.

Mitchell Trubisky vs The Packers Front 7

Mitchell Trubisky was successful at running the ball and avoiding sacks. He had 45 yards and a rushing touchdown in the games and was able to make big throws outside the pocket. The Packers defense needs to contain him in the pocket and make him throw accurate passes, something he struggles with.

Marquez Valdes-Scantling vs Prince Amukamara

Marquez Valdes-Scantling, or MVS, will be the second outside wide receiver opposite Davante Adams. With Adams and Fuller battling on the other side, MVS will need to get deep on the defense and open the field. If he can do that, Rodgers can make great things happen.

Prediction

Green Bay Packers vs Chicago Bears rivalry is legendary and is always tough. In my Packers schedule breakdown, I predicted the Bears to win in a close one but I’ve been back and forth a lot. The Green Bay Packers come in a completely different team from last year, and the Bears offense looks to take off with another full year under Coach Matt Nagy. It should be a close game, but the Packers will inch it out 31-27.

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