Matchups that matter in Cardinals-Bears

If you didn't already know, the Arizona Cardinals take on the Chicago Bears today. There will naturally be matchups that matter more than others. What are they?

Matt Forte vs. Cardinals LBs

Last week the Saints running backs had over 150 receiving yards. They did that without C.J. Spiller, who is good in the passing game. Forte is one of the best in the passing game. Can the Cardinals limit his yards after the catch?

Matt Forte vs. Cardinals front seven

Arizona's run defense looks very good so far. They allowed only 54 yards on the ground last week and they looked great in the preseason. Forte ran for 189 yards against the Packers in Week 1. As you can see by the first two matchups, Forte is the key for the Cardinals defense.

Arizona offensive line vs. Bears pass rush

This always matters. Luckily, though, the Bears showed absolutely nothing in terms of a pass rush against Aaron Rodgers. Plus, they might be without Pernell McPhee.

Martellus Bennett vs. Deone Bucannon, safeties

The Cardinals will need to worry more about Bennett than they did last week against Ben Watson. Bennett is very good. He had five catches and a touchdown last week. Bucannon, who played all last week at linebacker, will likely be the one to cover him most of the time.

Patrick Peterson vs. Alshon Jeffery (or someone else)

It sounds like Jeffery will be unable to play, but if he does, Peterson's play against him is huge. he held Brandin Cooks, who is believed by many to be a breakout star this year, to four catches for 49 yards, and 30 came on one play. Peterson took him out of the game. Chicago basically has three offensive weapons -- Forte, Bennett and Jeffery. If Peterson locks him up, then the Bears will have a hard time elsewhere.

Chris Johnson vs. Bears defense

Chicago gave up 133 rushing yards to the Packers in Week 1. The Cardinals rushed for 120 against the Saints. Andre Ellington is out, so the burden falls on Chris Johnson.

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Are there other matchups you will be watching?