Sportsbook website excitement is growing for the Chicago Bears after their Monday Night win over Green Bay that put them at 3-0 for the season and in first place in the NFC North.
Lucky or Good?
The Bears scored a 20-17 win over NFC North favorite Green Bay despite being dominated in the stats. The Packers outgained the Bears 379-276 and held 35:49 time of ball possession advantage, but killed themselves with an insane 18 penalties for 152 yards and the nagging problem of their special teams as the Bears blocked a field goal and ran back a punt for a touchdown.
Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers outplayed his Chicago counterpart Jay Cutler with a 92.5 QB rating and 316 yards. Cutler finished the night with an 82.5 QB rating and 221 yards while being sacked 3 times. Cutler really struggled down the stretch and should have been intercepted twice.
While some handicappers at Sbg global.com will call the Bears win lucky the fact remains that a championship team will always take advantage of breaks and opportunities. Conversely when it comes to Green Bay a championship team will not self destruct and implode on Monday Night national TV.
Chicago Peppers Up
The acquisition of Julius Peppers by the Bears could be the biggest gain of the offseason. The former Carolina Panther has significantly improved the defensive line as he requires extra attention from opposing offenses. Peppers blocked a Mason Crosby field goal attempt that proved to be the difference in Monday’s sportsbook payout.
Mad Mike
Another positive for the Bears is offensive coordinator Mike Martz. While Martz may have the reputation of being eccentric and “out there” he is also respected for his offensive creativity. Sportsbook website handicappers have seen noticeable improvement from Cutler as he has a sparkling 109.7 QB rating so far this season compared to a horrible 76.8 mark in his first season as a Bear last year. The Bears rank 11th overall in the NFL for total offense and 5th in passing with Martz in charge.
Getting their Kicks
The kicking game is often overlooked by fans, coaches, and sportsbook handicappers but proved to be the difference Monday. Robbie Gould is one of the elite kickers in the game and had the winning field goal for Chicago and Devin Hester changed the game with a 62 yard TD punt return.