Brad Biggs at the Chicago Tribune writes about Earl Bennett, who was out for the last Packers game with a sprained ankle:
“Now, Bennett is healthy from a sprained ankle suffered in the Dec. 20 game in Minnesota when linebacker Chad Greenway tackled him on a play over the middle. If he’s lined up in the slot, he could be a primary target for quarterback Jay Cutler when the Packers bring pressure. Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers is expected to blitz early and often.”
“The Bears face a considerable challenge going against the Packers. With cornerbacks Charles Woodson and Tramon Williams, the Packers play press man coverage better than any secondary in the league. Woodson is the reigning NFL defensive player of the year and Williams has three interceptions in Green Bay’s first two playoff games. The Packers have given the Bears trouble in the past.”
The Bears definitely missed Bennett January 2. He is a sizable receiver and that will help him, in particular, get off the line of scrimmage. But they’re going to need more than just him to beat the Packers. Green Bay did an excellent job of scouting the Bears. They anticipated and took away their hot routes on the blitz. Now they will need to adjust.