Chicago Bears 2006 Preview

The Chicago Bears had a great season in 2005. TheyThe receiving core is a bit lackluster. Sure, there's
finished 11-6 and went to the playoffs. Their oneMuhsin Muhammad, but he's not getting any younger.
problem was scoring. Many in the media have toutedAside from Muhammad, there's not too much to be
the Bears as the NFC North champions. Are theyexcited about-yet. The young Bears receivers do
correct? Let's take a look at the 2006 Chicago Bears.have talent and could blossom into solid contributors on
Fortunately for them, their division is not that tough.the field. Right now, the receiving core is just average.
Key MovesDefense and Special Teams
One major move by the Bears was the addition ofLast season it was all about the defense. The Bears
Brian Griese. The offense was up and down lastdefense constantly made critical plays and kept their
season. Griese will be fighting for a job. He comes inteam in the game. The 2006 Bears defense is above
as a backup, but if Grossman fails to impress, Grieseaverage again. The best component of the defense is
could take the reins. Their defense loses a good playerthe linebacker unit. They are off the charts. The weak
in Jerry Azumah. Despite being only 28, he had to call itpart of the defense is the secondary. Losing Jerry
quits. His body got the best of him.Azumah didn't help any. The Bears did pick up
Quarterbackscornerbacks Ricky Manning and Dante Wesley. The
One of the issues last season was the health of Rexsecondary will have to step it up in 2006. The special
Grossman. He's expected to be healthy this season.teams unit has its ups and downs. Punter Brad
Grossman could help the Bears offense soar. TheMaynard needs to have a better season. The Bears
signing of Brian Griese gives the Bears a solid backup.hope that Robbie Gould, kicker, was not just a one
Even is Grossman goes down, they won't experienceyear wonder. On the plus side, the Bears did add a
a horrendous drop. Neither quarterback is uppercouple return men that could be home run type of
echelon. The Bears QB situation is just above average.guys.
Running Backs2006 Prediction
The Bears are sitting pretty in the running game.It's possible that the Bears win their division, because
Thomas Jones should have another great year. Theythe division is weak. However, I believe they will be an
also have Cedric Benson in the wings. The running8-8 team. The schedule is not too tough, but it's not the
game of the Bears is the offense's strong point.walk in the park it was in 2005. In 2005, the Bears had
Throw in the tough blocking Bryan Johnson and youa 2-4 record against really good teams. This is why
have a ground attack that will eat up yards. Thomasthey faltered in the playoffs. They were not as good
Jones had 1,335 yards last season. As nice as that is,as their record indicated. In 2006, they have 8 games
Cedric Benson is expected to be better when he'sthat look to be pretty tough, 2 that are middle ground
ready.and 6 that are against lower tier teams.
Receivers