Chicago Bears at Seattle Seahawks: Week 3 Prediction

Aug 22, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) rushes for a touchdown against the Chicago Bears during the first quarter at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

One would think two teams meeting with 0-2 records would produce a close game but most experts have gone the same direction in predicting what will happen between the Chicago Bears and Seattle Seahawks. Is it the same here?

Injuries

Jay Cutler and Alshon Jeffery out with hamstrings

Missing a primary receiver like Alshon Jeffery makes like hard enough on the Bears offense but quarterback Jay Cutler too? Both are nursing hamstring problems and have been declared out for the game. It’s clear John Fox and his staff have no intentions of risking either player in a game this early in the season.

Marshawn Lynch questionable with calf

It really hasn’t been the torrid start hoped for from Marshawn Lynch this season and now he’s dealing with a calf problem that head coach Pete Carroll said is significant enough to make him a game-time decision. If he can’t go that means veteran Fred Jackson is on deck.

Key Matchups

Cary Williams vs. Marquess Wilson

Throwing at Richard Sherman is a losing proposition for any quarterback, so it’s fair to say Jimmy Clausen will try to find success on Sunday picking on Cary Williams. So far quarterbacks have a 125.8 rating when throwing in his direction. Expect third-year man Marquess Wilson to draw that assignment.

Shea McClellin vs. Jimmy Graham

Admittedly, former 1st round pick Shea McClellin does look more comfortable at inside linebacker than he did outside but he’s been having problems in coverage thus far. That doesn’t bode well as he prepares to take on the task of stopping tight end Jimmy Graham, who is due for a breakout game.

Fantasy

Sit: Matt Forte

With no Cutler or Jeffery to pull attention elsewhere, the entire focus of the Seahawks defense, who now have Kam Chancellor back will be on stopping Matt Forte and the Bears ground attack. That won’t stop them from trying but don’t expect a productive week from the two-time Pro Bowler.

Start: Russell Wilson

One thing that is becoming clear about the Bears defense is their lack of speed. Age has a lot to do with that but it’s something that doesn’t translate well against a versatile threat like Russell Wilson who can beat teams throwing and running the ball. Unless the offensive line crumbles, he should have a big game.

Prediction: Seahawks win 40-7

Let’s face it. The Bears are just not equipped to win this game. They’re badly banged up on offense, missing two key starters and don’t have enough on defense to really have a chance at stopping a balanced Seattle attack. Expect the Seahawks to get their big lead early and ride it out through the second half.

Next: NFL Bold Predictions: The McCown Brothers And More

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