Saints vs. Bears - Week 15 Thursday night game (1 Viewer)

[Judge Smails]

Lots of starters figure to go in this one. Brees, Bush, Thomas, Colston, Moore, Shockey, and possibly Hartley for the Saints and Forte, Bears D, Gould and possibly Orton/Hester for the Bears will be in many a lineup.

Weather will be COLD. Low that night is expected to be 7 degrees, which is only 8 degrees off the record low for the day. Good news is that it is supposed to clear that night, with a few snow showers expected during the day but only a 10% chance of precipitation in the evening. Also, although Wednesday is supposed to be windy, it is only supposed to be 6 MPH Thursday night.

Bring your predictions for the game and individual players. Many a fantasy football Superbowl will ride on this game.

 

[Islanders rule]

I think Chicago will win this game. Saints are not used to playing in this weather and Bears defense should hold up.

 

[rockalum]

yeah, i'd like to find a way to sit colston. which means he'll probably have a good game, since he seems to play well when i bench him.

i'll probably give pierre thomas a start at flex over colston since chicago only seems to stop the run every other week.

 

[•TheRealMcCoy]

Orton: 246 pass yds / 3 TDs / 1 INT

Forte: 101 Rush yds / 6 rec for 46 yds / 2 total TDs(1 Recieving)

Gould: 1 for 2 FGs.

Rashied Davis: 4 rec for 66 yds

Olsen: 3 rec for 27 1 TD

////////////////////////

Brees: 342 pass yds / 2 TDs / 2 Ints

Bush: 47 rush yds / 5 rec for 66 yds / 1 TD

Pierre: 88 rush yds / 1 rec for 8 yds / 0 TDs

Moore: 9 rec for 66 yds / 1 TD

Colston: 5 rec for 66 yds / 1 TD(I hope!)

Hartley: 1 for 3 FGs?

////////////////

Thats what I think?? Im hoping for Colston to wake up?? I bench him he plays well!! I start him he plays like crap!!?? So who knows what he'll do?? My other choice is Kevin Walter!!! But he did well this past week so superstition goes to show he will play like crap this week!! LOL!

Thursday should be a fun game to watch!??

 

[Drewblood]

I'M leaning at playing Thigpen vs San Diego. I had Brady last year and week 15 he got 0 points. It was really cold, wet, and windy but I don't like the idea of Brees in this game at all. I see that it may be more windy than we think. It's going to be cold. Would I be crazy to start Thigpen here?

 

[zamboni]

I'M leaning at playing Thigpen vs San Diego. I had Brady last year and week 15 he got 0 points. It was really cold, wet, and windy but I don't like the idea of Brees in this game at all. I see that it may be more windy than we think. It's going to be cold. Would I be crazy to start Thigpen here?

Not crazy, but consider what Brees did in near-hurricane conditions on the road in Tampa last week. He did have 2 INTs, but still a very solid fantasy game with a lot of short-to-mid range passes.I don't think they'll be running much on the Bears, so the passing game should be in full gear.

 

[•TheRealMcCoy]

I'M leaning at playing Thigpen vs San Diego. I had Brady last year and week 15 he got 0 points. It was really cold, wet, and windy but I don't like the idea of Brees in this game at all. I see that it may be more windy than we think. It's going to be cold. Would I be crazy to start Thigpen here?

If the weather is not bad and is just cold than NOT starting Brees wouldn't make sense??!! The Bears are like 28th against the pass! And we all know Brees loves to throw the ball!!I know SD is worse (30th)Vs the pass!! But I started Wayne (against SD)a couple of weeks ago licking my chops and he got me like 5 pts??Im having the same problem with starting Colston this week???

 

[swidman]

The field conditions could be a big factor in this game. A frozen turf that is not very good to begin with could lead to trouble running the ball for both teams.

I have Brees and Moore in this game, and really need them to hook up a lot for me to have a shot in order to make my championship game.

 

[yellowdog]

Brees on December 30, 2007 @ Chicago:

35/60 320 yds. 3 TD 2 INT

 

[buck naked]

My prediction is that I'm going to freeze my behind off at this game. Yikes.

Brees will still put up numbers. Purdue probably had a few cold games as well. PLus, most of his passes are short.

 

[chocolate bomber]

I wouldn't start Colston again this year, if you have the means.

 

[LOCO]

starting pierre over ronnie brown.

 

[pantagrapher]

The field was frozen yesterday and still got torn up pretty badly. It's going to thaw over the next couple days while being hit with rain, freezing rain, sleet and more snow. I suspect Soldier Field is going to look like a mud pit by halftime. Whoever stays on their feet wins.

 

[Breesisdaman]

I think Chicago will win this game. Saints are not used to playing in this weather and Bears defense should hold up.

The Saints should get to Chicago ASAP to get used to the cold. They have been in this situation against the Bears in recent years so at least they kind of know what to expect. I am happy the Saints found the running game because they will need that balance against the Bears.

 

[RICK ROMO]

Anyone think Orton is a good play? The NO pass D is brutal. Can Orton recapture some of that early season magic or is it going to be the Forte show on the ground.

 

[mozzy84]

Brees on December 30, 2007 @ Chicago:35/60 320 yds. 3 TD 2 INT

my thoughts exactly, no way I bench brees. will be starting colston also, he's due for a td this week.

 

[GoinDeep]

We start 8 players and I have 3 playing in this game....Brees, Forte and Gould. With my opponent having Peyton against the Lions, I need a HUGE game from those guys!

 

[Trap Play]

I wouldn't start Colston again this year, if you have the means.

I'm not sure I have the means, but I'm still curious why you'd say this? The Bears can be thrown on.

 

[RamMan]

starting pierre over ronnie brown.

Strongly considering the same. I've got Brees as well so if I end up starting PT my playoff run will sink or swim with the Saints offense on a frozen Soldier Field on a short week. LET'S DO THIS!!

 

[yellowdog]

I may start Brees, Colston, AND Moore.

 

[Mason]

Unfortunately, I've got to decide by Thursday if I should start Thomas over Barber?!?

 

[chocolate bomber]

I wouldn't start Colston again this year, if you have the means.

I'm not sure I have the means, but I'm still curious why you'd say this? The Bears can be thrown on.

That's what I said about the Atlanta game yesterday.

 

[Black]

Man, I hate Thursday game decisions...

Orton or Thiggy vSD? I prefer Thiggy but CHI/NO seems like it could be a shootout.

Colston or Bowe vSD?

and is PThomas a good start, given that he contributes in the passing game also?

 

[MCguidance]

I think I'm going Bush since I also have Barber.

I am deciding between Colston and Ocho Cinco.

 

[raidersfan]

Anyone think Orton is a good play? The NO pass D is brutal. Can Orton recapture some of that early season magic or is it going to be the Forte show on the ground.

He's being getting healthier each week, and his fantasy points have gone up in each of those games since returning from injury. I'm thinking of starting him over Eli at Dal this weekend because of that. I'd say 250 and 2 td should be within reach in a game that should be high scoring. I would obviously check the weather again on Thursday for updates...Anyone watch Orton play this past Sunday? Did he look to be closer to 100% back?

 

[Judge Smails]

Anyone think Orton is a good play? The NO pass D is brutal. Can Orton recapture some of that early season magic or is it going to be the Forte show on the ground.

He's being getting healthier each week, and his fantasy points have gone up in each of those games since returning from injury. I'm thinking of starting him over Eli at Dal this weekend because of that. I'd say 250 and 2 td should be within reach in a game that should be high scoring. I would obviously check the weather again on Thursday for updates...Anyone watch Orton play this past Sunday? Did he look to be closer to 100% back?

Yes. He moved MUCH better, even had designed roll outs on a few plays. Announcers were talking about how much better he looked. He made very accurate throws for the most part, and is especially deadly in the redzone. I think it was good to have Booker back on the field - but he got hurt again - so monitor that. He did make 1 bad throw that was picked - and CHI got too conservative after that. As for the field - sure some people slipped when making cuts, but passing was happening no problem. It wasn't like that nightmarish field in Pittsburgh last year.

 

[Breesisdaman]

Unfortunately, I've got to decide by Thursday if I should start Thomas over Barber?!?

You dont even know if Barber will play. Plus he is facing the Gmen so I dont think he will explode. If you dont hear anything by Thursday i would start PT over Barber.

 

[Black]

Unfortunately, I've got to decide by Thursday if I should start Thomas over Barber?!?

You dont even know if Barber will play. Plus he is facing the Gmen so I dont think he will explode. If you dont hear anything by Thursday i would start PT over Barber.

Pierre vs. CHI running DEF? They are pretty stout vs. the run, but 28th vs. pass, so I would expect alot more from Reggie Bush?

 

[Crusaderfan]

Brees on December 30, 2007 @ Chicago:35/60 320 yds. 3 TD 2 INT

Thanks. I needed to see that. I've been riding Brees all season long, had the best record and a bye this week. Thought I was in good shape then I realized Brees in the freezing cold next week. This makes me feel better about my matchup. If we can get by this we have Brees @ DET next week.

 

[Steel Town]

I am considering starting Bush (non ppr league), but am fearful the Bears will be able to contain him.

 

[raidersfan]

Anyone think Orton is a good play? The NO pass D is brutal. Can Orton recapture some of that early season magic or is it going to be the Forte show on the ground.

He's being getting healthier each week, and his fantasy points have gone up in each of those games since returning from injury. I'm thinking of starting him over Eli at Dal this weekend because of that. I'd say 250 and 2 td should be within reach in a game that should be high scoring. I would obviously check the weather again on Thursday for updates...Anyone watch Orton play this past Sunday? Did he look to be closer to 100% back?

Yes. He moved MUCH better, even had designed roll outs on a few plays. Announcers were talking about how much better he looked. He made very accurate throws for the most part, and is especially deadly in the redzone. I think it was good to have Booker back on the field - but he got hurt again - so monitor that. He did make 1 bad throw that was picked - and CHI got too conservative after that. As for the field - sure some people slipped when making cuts, but passing was happening no problem. It wasn't like that nightmarish field in Pittsburgh last year.

Thanks, appreciate the insight!

 

[qimqam]

Brees on December 30, 2007 @ Chicago:35/60 320 yds. 3 TD 2 INT

Was it 7 degrees? That changes everything.I'd much rather play in Hurricane winds in Tampa than 7 degrees in the Windy city

 

[Firekaps]

I would anticipate that regardless of the weather, NOs passing offense is a must start. I think that includes Bush.

Bears have really not stopped anyone via the pass for quite some time, and the Saints - despite the newfound running attack with Thomas this past week, should throw and throw a lot.

I expect 300 and 2-3TDs from Brees. I cannot guess who it all as that seems to change week to week.

I would guess Bush is good for 4-6 catches and about 10 carries.

 

[saintfool]

the saints have been pretty stingy over the last several weeks with their run defense. they have allowed only one RB to rush for more than 100 yards and that was Tomlinson with 105. they might allow for more than a hundred combined but individual RBs find it tough to go off against them. they have only allowed 10 tds on the ground all year, which puts them among the better defenses.

i think forte may have a tough time against the Saints putting up big numbers. because of injuries, the saints have a really porous secondary but i don't think it's ripe for exploitation against the weak Bears WR corps.

the saints - brees in particular - struggle against aggressive defenses. generally, the games that they have lost have been against those physical, aggro defenses like washington, minnesota, tampa, and carolina. the bears have beaten them twice already - setting the blueprint for other teams, i think - in as many years. the weather, too, only helps the bears.

 

[Kwai Chang Caine]

I get the "pleasure" of watching my opponent trot out Brees and Forte against me. I have no one in this game. Will be dying a thousand deaths. Constant points for three plus hours.

 

[Gadabout]

Brees on December 30, 2007 @ Chicago:

35/60 320 yds. 3 TD 2 INT

Was it 7 degrees? That changes everything.I'd much rather play in Hurricane winds in Tampa than 7 degrees in the Windy city

Noted.

 

[Kwai Chang Caine]

the saints have been pretty stingy over the last several weeks with their run defense. they have allowed only one RB to rush for more than 100 yards and that was Tomlinson with 105. they might allow for more than a hundred combined but individual RBs find it tough to go off against them. they have only allowed 10 tds on the ground all year, which puts them among the better defenses.i think forte may have a tough time against the Saints putting up big numbers. because of injuries, the saints have a really porous secondary but i don't think it's ripe for exploitation against the weak Bears WR corps. the saints - brees in particular - struggle against aggressive defenses. generally, the games that they have lost have been against those physical, aggro defenses like washington, minnesota, tampa, and carolina. the bears have beaten them twice already - setting the blueprint for other teams, i think - in as many years. the weather, too, only helps the bears.

From your lips to God's ears!

 

[yellowdog]

Brees on December 30, 2007 @ Chicago:35/60 320 yds. 3 TD 2 INT

Was it 7 degrees? That changes everything.I'd much rather play in Hurricane winds in Tampa than 7 degrees in the Windy city

Not sure what the temp was, but it was December 30 in Chicago. I doubt it was sunny and 72. Brees will be fine.

 

[MDSkinner]

Brees on December 30, 2007 @ Chicago:35/60 320 yds. 3 TD 2 INT

Was it 7 degrees? That changes everything.I'd much rather play in Hurricane winds in Tampa than 7 degrees in the Windy city

To go along with thatOn January 21 of 2007 (a great day for us Bears fans)Brees went 27/49 354 2/1The Saints were shellacked that day but Brees still put it very solid numbers and that day was VERY cold with sleet and snow. Brees went to college at Purdue, and even though that has certainly been a long time ago I would not be too worried about him in cold weather.

 

[swidman]

The forecast has, apparently, been updated.

From the Chicago Tribune:

Partly cloudy and not as cold. Light southwest winds increase to 20 m.p.h. in the afternoon. Partly cloudy with a few flurries overnight.

High 30

Low 17

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

let it snow let it snow let it snow

and be windy too!

 

[swidman]

let it snow let it snow let it snowand be windy too!

It can snow, but don't let it be windy. I want my Bears to win, but I need Brees to light up the sky, with a bunch of passes to Lance Moore, so I can have a chance to advance to the championship game in my league.

 

[Judge Smails]

The forecast has, apparently, been updated. From the Chicago Tribuneartly cloudy and not as cold. Light southwest winds increase to 20 m.p.h. in the afternoon. Partly cloudy with a few flurries overnight.High 30Low 17

Wow - you're right. This just from Weather.comThuDec 11Partly Cloudy28°18°10%ABC Chicago says 30/18, partly cloudy, slight chance for a few stray flurries, and best of all, max wind of 10MPH. It looks like the front is blowing through rapidly, with horrible weather today and tomorrow, then partly cloudy and very reasonable weather (for Chicago) Wed/Thurs/Fri. Starting to look better. Both of these QB's have demonstrated the ability to throw in the cold, with some wind, so I think the passing games for both get upgraded.

 

[kapp]

The field conditions could be a big factor in this game. A frozen turf that is not very good to begin with could lead to trouble running the ball for both teams. I have Brees and Moore in this game, and really need them to hook up a lot for me to have a shot in order to make my championship game.

Soldier Field has a heated field, like most newer stadiums in the North. I believe the official term is "turf-conditioning system".

 

[Judge Smails]

Thomas or Bush, I ask you, Thomas or Bush????????? Was the Chicago D (especially Urlacher) intact last year December when Thomas went off on them? Why couldn't he do it again?

 

[kapp]

Thomas or Bush, I ask you, Thomas or Bush????????? Was the Chicago D (especially Urlacher) intact last year December when Thomas went off on them? Why couldn't he do it again?

IIRC, the problem was primarily with the safeties. Brown was out, as usual. Don't worry...the Chicago papers will be all over this exact topic in the next 2 days. Particularly because Thomas is from Chicago and went to UofI.

 

[Judge Smails]

Thomas or Bush, I ask you, Thomas or Bush????????? Was the Chicago D (especially Urlacher) intact last year December when Thomas went off on them? Why couldn't he do it again?

IIRC, the problem was primarily with the safeties. Brown was out, as usual. Don't worry...the Chicago papers will be all over this exact topic in the next 2 days. Particularly because Thomas is from Chicago and went to UofI.

So they'll tell me who to start??

 

[saintfool]

Brees on December 30, 2007 @ Chicago:35/60 320 yds. 3 TD 2 INT

Was it 7 degrees? That changes everything.I'd much rather play in Hurricane winds in Tampa than 7 degrees in the Windy city

To go along with thatOn January 21 of 2007 (a great day for us Bears fans)Brees went 27/49 354 2/1The Saints were shellacked that day but Brees still put it very solid numbers and that day was VERY cold with sleet and snow. Brees went to college at Purdue, and even though that has certainly been a long time ago I would not be too worried about him in cold weather.

i think this is the story: brees vs the bears defense. brees has played in just about every weather condition. he just seems to be off his game against those hyper-aggressive defenses. the saints don't give up many sacks but he gets pressured and hurried in this throws. games like the recent tampa one would be a good example. maybe the best news for brees is that the offense is healthy. also, the success of the running game this week could bring some sanity to the playcalling from payton.

 

[kapp]

They will answer your question about whether or not the D was intact last year and provide comments on who was the problem on D.

 

[Ted Lange as your Bartender]

I don't really care who wins, as long as Forte is terrible!