2016 NFL Season: Picking The Week One Winners
By Erik Lambert
Chicago Bears at Houston Texans
Two teams with high expectations in 2016. The Houston Texans are aiming to defend their division crown and erase the bad taste of their ugly playoff loss back in January. Brock Osweiler has the city excited as their new quarterback and J.J. Watt is returning earlier than expected from back surgery. On the other side the Chicago Bears have made big strides in rebuilding their roster. The defense is younger, faster and more aggressive. Jay Cutler has a fortified offensive line and healthy weapons. It’s an interesting matchup to say the least.
Notable Injuries:
Pernell McPhee (CHI) – Initially it was thought the Bears’ top pass rusher would be ready for the regular season but the rehab from knee surgery went longer than expected. Pernell McPhee is now on the PUP list, not due back until October. Finding ways to replace his loss will be the challenge ahead for defensive coordinator Vic Fangio.
Duane Brown (HOU) – Getting Watt back was great news for the Texans, but it’s not all bright and sunshiny in Houston. Though Pro Bowl left tackle Duane Brown avoided the PUP list, he is not expected to play in the opener. Though his quad injury is healing, it’s not quite at a point where he can take the risk. That absence will be felt on that Texans front.
Key Matchup:
Kyle Fuller vs. DeAndre Hopkins
The biggest fear Bears fans have is what will the team be getting from the secondary? Top cornerback Kyle Fuller looked like he might miss the opener after having minor knee surgery, but the third-year man insists the pain he felt is gone and intends to play. They’ll need him because DeAndre Hopkins has emerged as one of the best receivers in football. Slowing him down will require everything the Bears have, never mind stopping him.
Prediction: Texans win 26-20
Next: GB @ JAX