The Chicago Bears left the windy city along with its 20 degree weather and landed in Miami, greeted by 70 degree temps and a sunny sky. The team arrived on Sunday, ahead of their Super Bowl opponent Indianapolis Colts who are expected to arrive on Monday.
Upon arrival at the team’s hotel, head coach Lovie Smith answered reporter’s questions for about 20 minutes.
The Bears are currently 7-point underdogs to Peyton Manning and the Colts. Much of that line is based on the abilities of Chicago quarterback Rex Grossman. While Grossman has managed to lead the Bears to a 15-3 record many still question his skills behind center.
Indianapolis had the AFC’s second ranked passing defense this season and while their running defense was among the worst they have stepped up big in the playoffs and shut down Larry Johnson, Jamal Lewis, and Corey Dillon.
The passing defense of the Colts won’t scare the Bears head coach. Smith allowed Grossman to throw against the NFC’s number one ranked passing defense in their win over New Orleans. While his line didn’t look impressive (11/26 144 yards) he did throw a touchdown and open up their running game.
Thomas Jones ran for 123 yards and a pair of touchdowns in the NFC Championship game, an accomplishment the Bears are hoping he can duplicate come Sunday.
Heading into Super Bowl XLI the Bears had a 7-1 record on the road while the Colts finished the regular season with a 4-4 road record. Indianapolis did beat Baltimore on the road in the second round of the playoffs.
The Bears had a scheduled practice at the University of Miami today.
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