New Orleans at Chicago-3

The New Orleans Saints head to Chicago on Thursday to face off in what could be the deciding factor for one teams playoff chances. Both teams are 7-6, and in the running for a wildcard spot. On paper the Saints look to have their way with the Bears, being ranked 1st in the league in passing yards per game (310) and touchdowns (26). The Bears have a strong defense, but if there was a weak link it would be their secondary. Chicago ranks near the bottom of the league in defensive passing yards per game, which could be a nightmare for the Bears against such a powerful offense.
Gridiron Experts is looking at Thursday’s game in a different light; all the stats and numbers are nice, but what people may overlook is the home field advantage. The Saints have only one road win this season, beating the rebuilding Chiefs. The Bears will do everything they can to make the field as lousy as possible; if I was Lovie Smith I’d get the grounds keepers to turn the sprinklers on all night, and turn the game into a mud bowl. Drew Brees will have a hell of a time trying to avoid Brian Urlacher and the hungry Bears, all the while dealing with the loud noise from the fans. We like the Bears in a close one, CHI 27-24.