NFL Picks: Week 1 Packers vs Bears

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September 5, 2023

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The NFL Franchises Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears are getting ready to face off at 4:25 pm ET on Sunday, September 10, 2023, at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois.

 

BUSR NFL Lines

Spread: Packers +1 (-110), Bears -1 (-110) 

Moneyline: Packers -105, Bears -116

Over: O 43.5 (-110), U 43.5 (-110) 

 

Green Bay Packers

Packers’ Last Stand

The Packers navigated a turbulent path last season, wrapping up with a subpar 8-9 overall record. Although they balanced their division games with a 3-3 record, their away games, which is the context for the upcoming match, saw them faltering with a 3-5 score. Both their offense and defense averaged 21.8 points per game, offering a curious equilibrium. The offense churned out 337.9 yards per game, while the defense conceded a near-identical 336.5 yards. Aaron Rodgers, now sporting New York Jets colors, dazzled with 3695 passing yards, while Aaron Jones galloped with 1121 rushing yards. Allen Lazard emerged as the chief receiver, clocking 788 yards.

 

 

Bears: On the Hunt for Redemption

The Bears’ last season was nothing short of a nightmare. Their 3-14 overall scorecard and a dismal 0-6 in division games painted a bleak picture. A worrying 2-7 home record further raises the stakes for the forthcoming game. Their offense, generating an average of 19.2 points and 307.8 yards per game, had much room for improvement, whereas their defense, allowing 27.2 points and 375.9 yards, needs tightening. However, the beacon of hope was Justin Fields, who not only led the team in passing yards (2242) but also showcased his versatility by leading in rushing yards (1143). Cole Kmet had a modest season, leading in receiving yards with 544.

 

Deep Dive Analysis

Chicago BearsAccording to BUSR’s NFL Odds, the Bears surprisingly enjoy a 1 point favorite status, a nod to their potential. Despite their turbulent past season, the Bears are in their sophomore year under Coach Eberflus. All eyes are on Justin Fields, the budding quarterback who showed glimpses of brilliance amidst the team’s cloudy performance. His personal growth, coupled with the enhanced talent surrounding him, holds promise for the Bears’ resurgence this season.

Conversely, the Packers’ last season’s shortcomings weren’t solely based on their game performance. Their talismanic Aaron Rodgers has ventured to the New York Jets, leaving the team in a transitional phase. Jordan Love, while promising, is a palpable downgrade from Rodgers’ seasoned finesse. Further exacerbating matters is the Packers’ nascent receiving corps, bereft of the kind of experience and talent that turns games. The upcoming season, by all indications, will be an uphill climb for the Packers, especially in terms of scoring.

Historically, the Packers have had an upper hand in this age-old division rivalry. Yet, with the tables slowly turning, the Bears see a glimmer of hope in regaining dominance. Betting enthusiasts might find solace in backing the Bears to cover the spread.

 

Injury Report 

The path to this game hasn’t been without its hurdles, especially in terms of player injuries. The Packers face challenges with T. Moore (S) and T. Davis (TE) both on injured reserve due to knee injuries. Additionally, E. Stokes (CB) remains out indefinitely, and R. Doubs (WR) is questionable for the game. The Bears aren’t without their troubles either. T. Jenkins (OL) is sidelined indefinitely, while I. Ford (WR) is on the injured reserve. However, there is a glint of optimism as C. Claypool (WR) might make a probable return in the upcoming game.