Packers and Bears renew NFL's oldest rivalry

Talk about it

GREEN BAY - The NFL’s oldest rivalry will be renewed for the 185th time tonight, when the Green Bay Packers host the Chicago Bears.

The Packers have won the last four games in this series – but that was before the Bears beefed up their passing attack by acquiring receiver Brandon Marshall in the off-season. Last Sunday, Marshall quickly became a favorite for quarterback Jay Cutler, catching nine passes for 119 yards and a touchdown in the Bears’ 41-21 rout of Indianapolis. Also, the Bears picked up Michael Bush to join Matt Forte as a dual force in Chicago’s backfield. Bush had two touchdowns against the Colts, and Forte one.

The Packers, meanwhile, were outplayed by San Francisco in the Niners’ 30-22 victory at Lambeau Field last Sunday. And running back Cedric Benson says it’s imperative that he and his fellow rushers put on a better performance – because if they don’t, the passing game won’t go very far. Benson only rushed for 18 yards. And the Packers as a team could only muster 45 yards on the ground, while the 49’ers led the NFC in rushing yards in Week-One with 186. The NFL Network will televise tonight’s game starting at 7:20. It will also be on local TV in Green Bay and Milwaukee.

The Packers may have to play without receiver Greg Jennings tonight. He’s listed as doubtful with the groin injury he suffered last Sunday – and coach Mike McCarthy says he’ll decide today whether Jennings will suit up. Green Bay linebacker Terrell Manning is out with a concussion. Running back James Starks and corner Davon House are both listed as doubtful with their lingering injuries. Defensive end C.J. Wilson is questionable with a groin injury, and linebacker Jamari Lattimore is also questionable with a bad ankle. For the Bears, corner Charles Tillman and tight end Kyle Adams are both questionable. Linebacker Brian Urlacher is listed as probable with a knee injury – but he fully participated in Chicago’s last practice.

Tags: wisconsin sports, proam, football, packers