Minnesota at Chicago

Minnesota chalked up a huge home win last week, 34-7 against Seattle. Maybe they’ve turned things around and are headed back towards where they started the season 6-0. Or, maybe not. Last week’s win came against a team that can’t win on the road, so I am not all that impressed. Chicago will play spoiler this week. As if this Vikings defense wasn’t having enough problems, their defensive coordinator accepted the head coaching position at Central Florida and won’t be in Minnesota next year. Where do you think his head is now? He’s not even being shy about it! He was quoted this week saying “UCF is my job right now and I will work on this job too.” The Vikings are ranked 27th in the league in total defense. Since week 8, they’ve given up over 28 points per game – and that average includes a 14 point performance against Detroit and a 7 point defensive effort last week. Outside of these two games, they’re giving up 35 points per game! By the second half, it should be dipping below freezing in Soldier Field, making it difficult on a dome team like Minnesota. The Bears are motivated by pride and the hope of reaching .500 by winning out. They are also motivated to spoil a hated division-rival’s playoff hopes. Rex Grossman gets the start at quarterback for the Bears. Normally I don’t like being on the side of rookie QBs but against this defense I’ll make an exception. The Chicago passing game, ranked 31st in the league, certainly can’t get any worse! A division home dog in December is a beautiful thing.