Players to Watch:
QB Joe Webb - Hopefully we will be able to see rookie quarterback Joe Webb his first start in front of millions of people on Monday Night Football (Favre is now listed as questionable so he may end up starting). This will be a very daunting task for the young quarterback, but with the quarterback position up in the air, Webb has a chance to make an impression and possibly become the Vikings future quarterback. We will see if he can step up to the challenge. The one thing that Webb will bring is an unreal athleticism. Webb was going to be converted to a receiver when he was originally drafted, and has been featured as a return man this year. The Vikings should find ways to get Webb out of the pocket and allow him to use his athletic ability to make plays.
WR Sidney Rice - Rice was very close to being put on injured reserve this year, but came back in week 11 and has really impressed. It is surprising that Rice has been able to come in after not playing for so long and make plays. I expect him to continue to get better and help out his young quarterback.
DE Jared Allen - Remember when everyone was questioning what had happened to Allen after he started the season with 1 sack over 7 games? Well since then Allen has been on fire getting 8.5 sacks in the last 6 games. Look for Allen to have a huge game against QB Jay Cutler who has taken the most sacks in the NFL this year.
Key Matchup: Players vs. The frozen field - The game will most likely be played with snow falling and in below 20 degree temperatures. For a team that is used to playing in the friendly confines of a dome this will be a big test for them, especially because the Bears (who are the away team) are accustomed to this weather. Apparently the field is as hard as concrete so the tougher team is going to come out on top in this one.
Why the Vikings Will Win - The Bears are overrated. Yeah, they are 9-4, but 6 of those wins have come by 7 points are less and many of them against weaker competition. Last week RB BenJarvis Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead were able to go over 100+ yards in snowy conditions against the Bears defense. So I think Adrian Peterson, who no one would confuse with the two Patriots undrafted backs, can have a big game. I think that the Vikings can rally around a guy like Webb who can create offense by himself and bring a different elements to the quarterback position. One thing is for certain, if the Vikings get an early lead look for Jay Cutler to revert back to his turnover friendly form and throw at least 2 picks.
Prediction: Vikings 17 Bears 10
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