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Wondering about a player, a past game or another issue involving the Bears? Senior writer Larry Mayer answers a variety of e-mail questions from fans every day on ChicagoBears.com.
I think Sunday’s game against the Lions is a “trap game” for the Bears. I really hope that Lovie Smith and the coaches make it clear that this game is a division game and the Bears should have an extra chip on their shoulder since Detroit swept them last year. What are your thoughts?
George
Framingham, Massachusetts
After their big victory over the Eagles last Sunday night, I think the possibility would exist for Sunday’s contest against the winless Lions to be somewhat of a “trap game” where the Bears could suffer a letdown and maybe wouldn’t play their best against a 0-3 team. But I think the Lions’ sweep of the season series last year completely precludes that. The Bears learned the hard way (twice) in 2007 that Detroit is more than capable of beating them, especially given the seven passes the Lions intercepted in the two games last year. If the Bears do lose Sunday, I don’t think it will be because they’re not focused or taking the Lions for granted.
Do you feel like the Bears will stay the course with their game plan this week or do you feel they will try to exploit the Lions with the run since Detroit is last in the league in run defense?
Jeff
Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania
The Bears’ game-plan already involves a strong commitment to the run, so I expect to see them try to establish their rushing attack against a Lions defense that is allowing a league-high 207.7 yards per game on the ground. With that being said, I think it’s important that the Bears are balanced on offense, so if Detroit starts putting eight men in the box, Kyle Orton has to be able to exploit the defense in the pass game. I’d like to see Orton complete a few intermediate-to-long throws to prevent the safeties from creeping up to the line of scrimmage, which in turn should create more room for running back Matt Forte.
What is the Bears’ turnover ratio so far this season?
Ben S.
Baltimore, Maryland
With eight takeaways (five interceptions, three fumbles) and eight giveaways (four interceptions, four fumbles), the Bears are tied for 15th in the NFL with a turnover differential of 0. The Bears have more takeaways than all but seven teams and more giveaways than all but four clubs.
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