Lovie Smith and the Bears have talked all week about wanting to beat the Packers and going all out to win Sunday.
Behind the scenes, however, it appears Smith has been preparing his backups to play more than normal. Michael C. Wright of ESPNChicago.com reports that the Bears staff told some of the team’s key backups to be ready to play. They tellingly “ramped up” practice repetitions for players like running back Kalil Bell and tight end Kellen Davis.
It’s possible the Bears will just be extra careful with a few nicked up players like wideout Earl Bennett, running back Matt Forte, and linebacker Pisa Tinoisamoa.
It’s also possible that once a few backups enter the game, many more will follow. The Bears may essentially let their rival Packers walk right into the playoffs. Giants fans can only hope otherwise.
