Lions' defense to put game in Cutler's hands

SHARE THIS POST

http://link.theplatform.com/s/6cLLTB/PTafjA9mmdOzeUhCG__OLTCaSqb3yn1d?mbr=true

http://link.theplatform.com/s/6cLLTB/PTafjA9mmdOzeUhCG__OLTCaSqb3yn1d

http://link.theplatform.com/s/6cLLTB/PTafjA9mmdOzeUhCG__OLTCaSqb3yn1d

http://link.theplatform.com/s/6cLLTB/PTafjA9mmdOzeUhCG__OLTCaSqb3yn1d?mbr=true

http://link.theplatform.com/s/6cLLTB/PTafjA9mmdOzeUhCG__OLTCaSqb3yn1d

http://link.theplatform.com/s/6cLLTB/PTafjA9mmdOzeUhCG__OLTCaSqb3yn1d

CTL: Why does Chicago hate Detroit?

Blackhawks fans hate the Red Wings; Bulls fans hated the Pistons in the 80s and Bears fans are growing to hate the Lions, but why? Friday's Chicago Tribune Live panel explores - 10/19

ANDREW BICKERS

As the Lions take on the Bears tonight at Soldier Field in a divisional matchup with potential post-season implications, the Lions’ defense aims to be the deciding factor in Monday night’s contest. M Live reporter Justin Rogers suggests that the Lions should focus on QB Jay Cutler in order to succeed. Cutler has been underwhelming so far this season after being reunited with WR Brandon Marshall. Through seven games, Cutler has completed on 59 percent of his passes for a 78.7 rating along with seven interceptions.

“Cutler is prone to making mistakes whether he is pressured or not,” wrote Rogers. “The Bears offensive line has been shaky and the Detroit defensive line is coming off its best performance of the season...Detroit needs to do what it did to Michael Vick and deliver a few hits to Cutler early, making him uncomfortable in the pocket.”

While Cutler will be the main focus, Lions cornerback Chris Houston has made a habit lately of shutting down the oppositions top wide receivers the past few weeks. Recent victims include Tennessee's Kenny Britt, Minnesota's Percy Harvin, and Philadelphia's DeSean Jackson. The Lions’ premier corner draws a tough match-up this week as 6-foot-4, 230-pound wide receiver Brandon Marshall has five inches and more than 50 pounds on Houston. The secret to Houston’s success is preparation. In a recent conversation with Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free-Press, Houston shared his recipe for success.

“Houston said he spends an extra 4 hours or so nightly, usually 6-10 p.m., watching film of his opponent for the week. First he watches an entire game, then receivers individually, then he delves into specific cutups, the offense in certain down and distance situations or by hash splits.”

The Bears will have their own defensive agenda this evening against Calvin Johnson. Detroit News reporter Josh Katzenstein points out that since 2010, “Megatron has had a lot of success against the Bears. In his past three games, Johnson is averaging five catches for 92.3 yards with two touchdowns.”