Chicago Bears Preseason: Five Things To Look For

Backup Quarterback  Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports

Since this is the first preseason game, don’t expect Jay Cutler to play much. Usually, the starter plays just a series or two before he is yanked. Then the backups go in.

Jordan Palmer is listed on the first Chicago Bears depth chart as Cutler’s backup. He will be in a battle with Jimmy Clausen, however. Palmer has an advantage since he already knows the system, but according to Michael C. Wright, Claussen has been the more impressive of the two.

Expect Palmer to come out first, and probably play the first half, with Claussen taking the second half. Also look for David Fales, the rookie, to get some snaps late in the game.

“They work well together, they like each other, they’re encouraging to each other. They know there’s competition, but when it’s all said and done, I’m hoping they get equal reps.” -Matt Cavanaugh on the backup quarterback competition

Even though the two are battling for a spot, Palmer and Claussen have supported each other. “They work well together, they like each other, they’re encouraging to each other,” quarterbacks coach Matt Cavanaugh said to the Chicago Sun-Times. “They know there’s competition, but when it’s all said and done, I’m hoping they get equal reps.”

They may be supportive of each other now, but I don’t think that will be the case starting tonight.