Packers at Bears - Game Previews - Green Bay Packers, Chicago Bears - Brief Article - Statistical Data Included
Vinnie IyerPackers at Bears
It's been awhile since these classic rivals have been among the NFL elite at the same time. Names such as Starn and Butkus were parts of this rivalry long ago, but current players such as Brett Favre and Brian Urlacher carry on a tradition of toughness. Anything less than a gritty performance from both teams in this always-intense matchup would be shock. It will come down to the Packers' offense vs. the Bears' defense, and when it's crunch time in a close game, Favre usually guts out a win. Prediction: Packers 24, Bears 20.
Dolphins at Colts. These teams have been the class of the AFC East the past two seasons. They are involved in another heated division race this year. The Dolphins have won three straight in Indianapolis, and should make it four in a row. Miami's ball-control offense will wear down the Colts' defense, keeping its defense fresh enough to contain the Colts' passing game. Prediction: Dolphins 23, Colts 17.
Steelers at Browns. At the beginning of the season, nobody would have predicted this game to be critical to the AFC Central race, but both teams are among the biggest of the many surprises this year in the NFL. Jerome Bettis is running like that old Brown named Brown, which should help push Pittsburgh past the new Browns. Prediction: Steelers 20, Browns 16.
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