Chicago Bears 2011 NFL Playoffs Preview: Defense is Key to Deep Run

The Chicago Bears enter the 2011 NFL Playoffs with home field advantage for their first NFL Playoffs match up. Underrated all season, Lovie Smith and the Chicago Bears enter the NFL Playoffs with a much needed bye week to rest up but this team is one of the healthiest teams entering the NFL Playoffs this season.

Will Jay Cutler Flourish Under NFL Playoffs Spotlight?

Jay Cutler has come of age in the 2010 NFL regular season and now skeptics will be downplaying Cutler's ability to succeed in the NFL Playoffs. Cutler and the Chicago Bears offense has undergone some philosophical changes with Mike Martz offense. Martz has taken pressure off of Cutler by using Matt Forte to establish the run and loosen up defenses by utilizing the play action pass.

Cutler's decision making has improved as the Chicago Bears season has progressed. Cutler is becoming more adept at reading opposing defenses and the improvement of the offensive line has helped him immensely. Cutler has also learned to trust his receivers as the season has drawn to a close. Answer: Jay Cutler has the ability to win one NFL Playoffs game.

Can Matt Forte Have a Big Day on Frozen Field in January NFL Playoffs?

Matt Forte has had some of his best games for the Chicago Bears against the better defenses in the NFL. Forte is a legitimate threat out of the back field as a rusher and as a pass catcher. Forte and Jay Cutler have worked well together this season out of the Chicago Bears back field and they could be a challenge for their NFL Divisional Playoffs opponent when they meet up in two weeks. Answer: Yes, Matt Forte is capable of taking this Chicago Bears team on his back and have a big game in the NFL Playoffs.

Will Chicago Bears Opponents Kick to Devin Hester?

Any NFL Playoffs team that kicks the ball to Devin Hester deserves what they will get. Hester has three touchdown returns for touchdowns this NFL season and holds the all time NFL record for touchdown returns. The Devin Hester factor will play a major role in the Chicago Bears offense since they will be getting the ball with a short field on every possession. Answer: No, the Chicago Bears NFL Playoffs opponents will not kick to Devin Hester.

Will Julius Peppers & Chicago Bears Defense be Effective on Frozen Soldier Field?

Julius Peppers has been under the radar all season for the Chicago Bears but he is a major factor in the success of this stifling Chicago Bears defense. Peppers has created space for the Chicago Bears two outstanding linebackers, Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs.

With Peppers taking on double teams, Briggs and Urlacher have the ability to freelance and create havoc either in the back field or over the middle when they drop back. In cold weather conditions the Chicago Bears defense has lived up to the task of playing up to their highest level. Answer: Yes, the Chicago Bears will be effective in Soldier Field for the NFL Playoffs in January.

Chicago Bears NFL Playoffs Prediction & Analysis

The Chicago Bears enter the NFL Playoffs with a 5-3 record on their home field and an advantage over teams that are accustomed to playing in domes. The Chicago Bears NFL Divisional Playoffs opponent will be determined after NFL Wild Card Playoffs weekend.

The Chicago Bears opponent will most likely be the New Orleans Saints. The Chicago Bears have an opportunity to beat a fast track team such as the New Orleans Saints on their home field. Chicago Bears expectations. Play a spirited game against the Super Bowl champs but lose the game late.

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