WHEN THE BEARS HAVE THE BALL
KEY PLAYERS
Josh McCown has been error-free in place of Jay Cutler (no interceptions or fumbles). Even his five sacks have been for a total of only 12 yards. Rams DE Robert Quinn has 12 sacks and five forced fumbles. It’s imperative that McCown ‘‘stay clean’’ against a team that can be had but builds momentum easily in the Edward Jones Dome.
ON THE GROUND
In tough sledding against a good Ravens defense, the Bears still managed 104 yards on 26 carries, with Matt Forte gaining 83 yards on 18 carries. They should be better indoors against a Rams defense that ranks 18th against the run (115 ypg) and 20th in rushing yards per attempt. The last time they were indoors, the Bears rushed for 131 yards on 16 carries at Ford Field against a Lions defense that ranks fifth in the NFL against the run. The Rams are stout in the middle with DT Michael Brockers, but pass-rushing DEs Robert Quinn and Chris Long also defend the run well.
IN THE AIR
This might be a big hit-or-miss day for Josh McCown. The Rams have a fast defense well-suited to the conditions at the Edward Jones Dome, with DEs Quinn (12 sacks) and Long (six sacks) and LB James Laurinaitis (two interceptions, two sacks) leading the way. On the other hand, the Bears are third in the NFL in sacks allowed per pass play. If they protect McCown, he could have a field day against a Rams pass defense that ranks 25th in passing yards allowed per attempt. WR Brandon Marshall was quiet against the Ravens (4-42, no TDs). He usually doesn’t stay quiet for very long.