Bears vs. Cardinals Preseason Week 2: Complete game preview
The Chicago Bears will take on the Arizona Cardinals in the second week of NFL preseason action. Here is everything you need to know about this game.
Following a tough loss to the hands of the Denver Broncos in the preseason opener, the Chicago Bears will take on the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday night in Glendale, Arizona. Despite missing the playoffs last season, the Cardinals are a playoff-caliber expects to compete for the Super Bowl. For the second straight week, the Bears have a true challenge.
Although the outcome may not matter, almost every player on the Bears roster has something to prove, especially those coming off of poor showings last week. After a 3-13 season, the Bears need to see improvement everywhere, even in games that don’t matter in the standings. The way a team rebounds after a loss is a telling sign for the direction of a team, and the Bears are going to need to rebound.
What to watch for the Bears
There’s plenty to be excited about for Bears fans, as last week’s game has created intriguing storylines for week two. Most notably, the play of rookie quarterback Mitch Trubisky, who wowed critics by completing 18 of 25 passes for 166 yards and a touchdown. On the other hand, presumed starting quarterback, Mike Glennon, threw a pick-six on his second throw of the game and finished just 2 of 8 for 20 yards.
While Glennon is fully expected to start the game, Trubisky will have another opportunity to shine against a good defense. The number of reps between the two is unknown and could depend on the play of Glennon. The bottom line is, this will be a definitive game in the Bears apparent quarterback competition.
Quarterbacks aside, the play of the Bears receiving core will be something to watch. Deonte Thompson was the only real standout last week, with 64 yards on five receptions. Veterans Kendall Wright and Victor Cruz will need to step up and prove that they are viable options in the slot. The biggest player to watch will be 2015 first rounder Kevin White, who is in big need of a breakout.
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As important as ever, the way that the defensive performs against the elite Cardinals offense is a key to watch. Veterans like Jerrell Freeman, Willie Young and Akiem Hicks will need to continue to contribute on defense, despite the meaninglessness of the game. The secondary is an obvious weakness of the Bears and they will need to show some upside in this game. The cornerbacks, in particular, will have a tough test, facing off against high-caliber receivers like Larry Fitzgerald and John Brown.
Finally, an under-the-radar storyline is the kicking. The Bears recently signed 2016-second round pick Roberto Aguayo, who will compete with Connor Barth for the job. Aguayo struggled mightily in 2016 but is still loaded with potential as a former second round pick. Barth, while consistent, is not a franchise kicker, and also needs to prove himself.
What to watch for the Cardinals
While the Cardinals might not have the same caliber of position battles that the Bears do, there’s still plenty to watch on the Cardinals end. As a potential playoff team, the Cardinals will look for improvements from young players rather than key veteran contributors.
The biggest thing to watch for Arizona is the play of first rounder Haason Reddick. Reddick has been very impressive in training camp and was recently named a starter. The play and improvement of Reddick will be a key storyline throughout the remainder of the preseason. The play of young players such as Reddick will be vital to a Cardinals defense in need of youth.
Finally, other young defenders will need to continue to improve for the Cardinals. 2016 first rounder Robert Nkemdiche stood out in last week’s win over the Raiders, but still has much to prove following a non-impactful rookie season. Second-round safety Budda Baker has had a great camp and preseason but also has room for improvement.
Game Details
Date: Saturday, August 19th, 2017
Time: 9:00 pm CT
Location: Glendale, AZ
Venue: University of Phoenix Stadium
TV: FOX 32 (Chicago) and NFL Network
Radio: WBBM- AM 780
Next: Bears: Who to watch in preseason Week 2
Can Trubisky prove that he deserves to be the starter? This week against the Cardinals will be a big test for the rookie quarterback. Make sure to check this game out so you can see the future of the Chicago Bears franchise on the field, even though the game itself does not matter much.