Eagles vs. Bears: The pick

I'VE SEEN the Eagles lose games to the Bears they should have won each of the past two seasons, and here I am, taking the Eagles again. Even though they are 0-7 on Sunday nights since these little NBC deadline-busters first appeared.

I think I might fit Joe Banner's definition of insanity, voiced after last season's NFC Championship Game loss. But I'm sorry - Jay Cutler? Behind that offensive line? I'm a little worried about the extra days Lovie Smith has had to prepare, Cutler's five-interception meltdown having occurred a week ago last night, but not that worried. It wasn't enough time for Brian Urlacher to heal, or anything.

When Donovan McNabb says it's a must-win game, I believe we are going to see the man play well. As wifty as the Birds were last season, they never lost three in a row, and this is a more talented (if less experienced) Eagles team. I don't think they're losing three in a row. No, they'll find a way to win this, then come home and trip over the Redskins at the Linc, really twisting the knife in their fans' guts.

Prediction

 

Eagles 23, Bears 17.

- Les Bowen