The Chicago Bears 2017 season is at a tipping point. It genuinely feels like this team can go one of two ways. They're coming off a big win in Baltimore against the Ravens. Not only that but news always came out that Aaron Rodgers is likely done for the year after breaking his collar bone. Suddenly the NFC North is up for grabs. At 2-4 the Bears aren't sitting pretty but they're only two games out of the race.
That makes the upcoming matchup with the Carolina Panthers all the more vital. Winning would push their record to 3-4 but also give them a key win over another NFC contender. That could play huge into tiebreakers later in the year. Presuming of course that the Bears are able to carry that momentum forward.
It's a tall order. Carolina is back to being a good football team after a difficult 2016 season. They're playing solid on both side of the ball. At the same time they're also a team that is looking vulnerable. News out of Charlotte helps explain why. (continue to next page)
Bears 2017 season could get a boost by Luke Kuechly absence Sunday
All-Pro middle linebacker Luke Kuechly is one of the most vital components to success Carolina has. Their defense often becomes a shadow of itself when he's not on the field. Last year he missed six games with a concussion. Before that in the previous 10 the Panthers allowed a 100-yard rusher just twice. During the six he was out, they allowed it four times including 240 against Seattle. They allowed 30+ points three times over that stretch compared to twice in the previous 10. His absence is impossible to replace. Not only is he a phenomenal athlete but also a world class football mind. He gets everybody lined up and knows where to be at all times. Following an injury scared last week, it seems the Bears caught a break with him.Kuechly has 29 tackles, a forced fumble and an interception so far this season. The Panthers run defense ranks fifth in the NFL through six games. Much of that due to his individual exploits. Him not being on the field is a huge deal. It means Jordan Howard may have some extra opportunities to find open running lanes. Also rookie quarterback Mitch Trubisky won't have to match wits with the 26-year old star. Carolina will still be a difficult opponent to beat, but this certainly increased the odds in the Bears' favor.
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