2006 Chicago Bears Preview

2006 season preview of the Chicago Bears NFL football team from Maddux Sports expert sports handicappers. Once the regular season starts don't miss any of Maddux's Expert NFL Picks and you will want to check out the free NFL odds section of the site featuring live odds from the best online sportsbook websites.

The Bears and every one of the 22 starters are back. Lovie Smith is lovin’ that fact. Chicago went from a 5-11 mark in 2004 to an 11-5 NFC North title in 2005.

QB Rex Grossman (39 ATT, 20 COMP, 259 YDS, 1 TDs, 2 INT) enters his fourth year but with only seven starts. Grossman reads defenses well, has a quick release and an accurate arm. But if he falters, Chicago has veteran QB Brian Griese (174 ATT, 112 COMP, 1,136 YDS, 7 TDs, 7 INT) to step in.

Running back is unsettled. Thomas Jones (314 ATT, 1,335 YDS, 4.3 AVG, 9 TDs) should be their main man, but as of July 15 they were still considering trade offers. If that happens, 2005 first-round pick Cedric Benson (67 ATT, 272 YDFS, 4.1 AVG, 0 TDs) will start. Adrian Peterson (76 ATT, 391 YDS, 5.1 AVG, 2 TDs) offers solid back up.

Thirty-three year old Mushin Muhammad (64 REC, 750 YDS, 11.7 AVG, 4 TDs) is still the team’s best receiver. 2005 rookie Mark Bradley (18 REC, 230 YDS, 12.8 AVG, 0 TDs), injured last season, can be a major factor if healthy. Speedy Bernard Berrian could be a big play guy. At TE, Desmond Clark’s (24 REC, 229 YDS, 9.5 AVG, 2 TDs) output has diminished.

The offensive line is composed of vets and a stabilizing force on the field. Look for strong play again this season.

The defense was tough in 2005—rated 2nd overall, 11th against the rush, 5th versus the pass and 1st in points allowed. Two defensive backs (Mike Green- Seattle; Jerry Azumah- retired) are gone. Free agent Ricky Manning has been signed and safety looks deep with the drafting Danieal Manning.

Linebacking is solid—Brian Urlacher (171 tackles) and Lance Biggs (170 tackles) are two of the best. The frontline includes versatile Tommie Harris. The “D” notched 41 sacks (8th) and 24 interceptions (2nd) and is a potent force.

2006 Chicago Bears Predictions

Three road games From November 12 to 26—Giants, Jets, Patriots—will test the Bears. Expect the team to take the NFC North division again but bow out early in the playoffs.

For more info on the Bears NFC North division rivals check out the Packers, Lions, and Vikings team previews that Maddux Sports has compiled for the football bettor.

For more info and news on the 2006 Chicago Bears football team visit the Chicago pro team page at NFL.com.