Patience -- I thought the play calling last week was a little too aggressive. The 49ers were willing to give Green Bay five-yard plays, but the Packers were getting greedy. They went for the jugular on a third and one. The Bears play a different scheme, but there similarities between the two defenses. For example, they tackle well and don’t give up big plays. Will the Packers be content with five-yard gains on second down?
Pass Protection -- The Bears rely on their ends. Julius Peppers is a beast and rookie Shea McClellin played well against Indy. However, the latter is somewhat overaggressive. I suspect Green Bay will run more screens tonight, though not to the extent that many of us hope they do. In addition, I expect more draws. It sounds irritating, considering last week, but this keeps the pass rush somewhat at bay. Also, Marshall Newhouse faces a huge test. The Bears will attack him with their premiere rushers.
Stop the Run -- We rag on the secondary, but the Packers were awful against the run. The duo of Michael Bush and Matt Forte is physical and Chicago will attempt to replicate the 49er formula. Plus, the Bears need to control the clock. Their defense is older and condition problems could arise, especially with Brian Urlacher.
Attack the Middle -- Urlacher can’t run with Jermichael Finley, so I suspect Rodgers will go after the Bear LB, especially if he’s in coverage with Finley. I also think they’ll loop Randall Cobb around out of the backfield. That’ll force a strong side backer or even a dropping end to hang with Cobb.
Turnovers -- Jay Cutler will force the issue. He does every game. The Packers must capitalize on this fact. The winner of the turnover battle often wins, but that‘s especially relevant in this series. The teams know each other well, so turnovers will tip the scale.
Pass Rush -- Clay Matthews played rejuvenated, but the 49ers were content with Joe Staley taking him man on man. The Bears will put two or possibly three blockers on him. That should clear the way for B.J. Raji, Jerel Worthy, Nick Perry, and D.J. Smith. Somebody needs to step up, forcing Chicago to make adjustments on the fly.
What are you guys watching for?