10 Reasons The Chicago Bears Will Win The NFC North

Aug 11, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Kevin White (13) runs after catch against Denver Broncos free safety Darian Stewart (26) during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 11, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Kevin White (13) runs after catch against Denver Broncos free safety Darian Stewart (26) during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug 27, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) is tackled by Chicago Bears defensive end Akiem Hicks (96) during the first half of the preseason game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 27, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) is tackled by Chicago Bears defensive end Akiem Hicks (96) during the first half of the preseason game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports /

The respect league-wide isn’t there yet for the Chicago Bears. They have a lot of proving to do, but there are reasons for optimism.

The NFC North remains in flux like any other division. Anointing the winner in September is never a wise decision. There are plenty of reasons to think the Bears can be in that conversation for winning the division title by the end of the season. It doesn’t even have to involve hallucinogens. Here is a list of 10 reasons why it’s a possibility.

Bigger and more explosive defensive line

Based on off-season moves and brief previews during the preseason, it’s evident that the Bears accomplished one of their primary goals this year. They got their defensive line to the type of talent they wanted to properly execute a 3-4 defense. Eddie Goldman is of course the centerpiece at nose tackle, not only big and strong to stop the run but a far better interior pass rusher than he gets credit for. He’s also flanked by high-effort veteran Mitch Unrein.

Yet it’s the new arrivals that should have the team excited. Akiem Hicks came in as a free agent from New England, boasting a rare mix of giant size and nifty athleticism that makes him a handful for any blocker. Then there’s rookie Jonathan Bullard who showcased an impressive explosion in preseason that could make him a devastating backfield penetrator who gives opponents fits. One must also not overlook former 6th round pick Cornelius Washington. He seems to love the new scheme and has proven very disruptive when able to stay healthy.

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