Monday, December 11, 2006

Chicago Bears at St. Louis Rams – Edward James Dome (Artificial)

It’s been a season for the ages in the Windy City. Going into Week 14, the Bears are one of three teams in the NFL with a league best 10-2 record. They have the league’s second best defense and they have dibs on first place in the NFC Norris. What could possibly go wrong for Chicago?

A QB controversy perhaps? Incumbent Rex Grossman’s QB rating has been dipping lower than sales for K-Fed’s new CD and many are calling for second generation signal caller Brian Griese to take over the reigns. According to reports from ESPN, Griese took half of the reps at practice this week.

Line: Bears -6 (Opening: Bears -6½)

Over/Under: 41 (Opening: 43½)

Records: Chicago 10-2 (9-3 ATS), St. Louis 5-7 (6-6 ATS)

Key Injuries: The Bears’ injury report is rather short, but they will be a little hamstrung (pun intended).

DT Tommie Harris not only has a banged up knee, but a severely strained hamstring as well. It may require surgery, which could effectively end his season.

CB Nathan Vasher’s hammy injury will force him to miss the game as well, while LB Leon Joe’s has him listed as questionable.

S Todd Johnson missed Friday’s practice with an injury and is listed as questionable.

Meanwhile, DT Tank Johnson will more than likely see action on Monday.

Rams LB Isaiah Kacyvenski has a concussion and is doubtful.

St. Louis doesn’t have any other impact players who will miss the game, but they do have a number of starters who are dinged up.

QB Marc Bulger and OG Adam Timmerman both have rib injuries; WR Kevin Curtis has a calf injury; WR Torry Holt’s knee is banged up and RB Stephen Davis’ hammy is bothering him. But don’t fret if you are thinking about backing the Rams. All are listed as probable.

LB Pia Tinoisamoa has a shoulder injury but is expected to play.

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