JEFF'S CHICAGO SPORTS BLOG - THE BEARS INVADE SAN DIEGO TODAY!
SOME OPENING-GAME THOUGHTS FROM JEFF! 
It seems almost impossible that the Chicago Bears could be serious underdogs as they are just several months removed from a Super Bowl appearance. Although the Bears came up short in winning last year's championship, it would make sense that they would be considered the second best team in football. Nevertheless, the Bears find themselves being doubted by the analysts, the books in Las Vegas, and even many Bear fans as they prepare to play the San Diego Chargers Sunday afternoon!
If we analyze this game it certainly has cause for concern if you're a Bears fan. San Diego was 14-2 last year with a dominating offense that features the best running back in the game, LaDainian Tomlinson. Top this with an imposing defense, featuring Shawn Merriman, who is arguably the best linebacker in football and the Bears certainly have their work cut out for them.
However, it seems as though some of the hesitation and doubt is reared in the woes of last season as well as this year's preseason. Questions abound around Bears running back Cedric Benson - is he the real deal? It didn't seem that he ran effectively in the preseason and is he durable enough after having to leave the Super Bowl with an injury and then not returning. For the first time in his pro career, Benson will be the Bears featured back for an entire game that means something against a tough defense.
Which Rex Grossman will we see? The QB that throws interceptions and fumbles the exchange from center or the QB that lights up the sky with long bombs to Bernard Berrian and utilizes tight end, Desmond Clark, in the middle of the field? Unfortunately for Grossman, he goes against the Charger defense which led the NFL in quarterback sacks last year so he will face intense pressure.
Finally, Bears fans can hang their hat on the fact the Bears defense is no slouch although they'll be tested by Tomlinson and Charger QB Phillip Rivers. The Bears will have an edge in Special Teams as well with return specialist, Devin Hester and field goal kicker, Robbie Gould.
The 2007 season is here and this is a terrific game to look forward to although for Bear fans it's already a little bit of a nail-biter.
What are YOUR thoughts? Can the Chicago Bears win the Super Bowl this season? Let me know!
DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO SPORTS EDITOR,
JEFF ARDITO
