Bears at Colts
Game Info
Kickoff: Saturday, August 24th at 7:00 pm ET
Location: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana
Betting Odds: IND -3 via Oddsshark
Network: WXIN, WFLD
Chicago Bears
Da Starters
The third game of the preseason is known as the “dress rehearsal”, where the starters tend to play most of the first half, and then some. However, don’t look for most of Chicago’s first unit to see much time. Matt Nagy has been vocal about the importance of rest. To him, entering September 5th healthy against the Packers is far more important than risking the likes of Mitch Trubisky, Allen Robinson, Tarik Cohen, and Khalil Mack this coming Saturday.
Can Josh Caldwell stick around?
Whereas the Chicago starters won’t see much of the field, Josh Caldwell will see plenty of action versus the Colts. The rookie running back signed on Monday after being released by the Chiefs last week. At this point, he doesn’t have a spot on the 53-man locked by any stretch; ahead of him aside from Cohen is Mike Davis and fellow rookie David Montgomery, who the Bears are very high on. However, RB depth will always be valued, and so perhaps a strong showing against Indy will aid in his quest to make an NFL team this season.
Indianapolis Colts
Luck(y) they have Brissett
Andrew Luck is not expected to practice this week, in any capacity. The plan is to ease him back into the swing of things as the Colts inch closer to the season opener. His calf strain has shifted to a high-ankle issue, and his Week 1 availability remains in doubt. Enter in Jacoby Brissett, who is poised to make the most of this opportunity as it stands now. If Luck were to miss time at the beginning of the regular season, look for Brissett, who is certainly a serviceable backup, to perhaps have sneaky streamer value given the offense around him.
Hale Hentges making noise
Rookie TE Hale Hentges is impressing coaches this summer for his run-blocking skills, as well as pass-catching. The undrafted rookie is making noise in an attempt to break camp with the team. The tight end room is already crowded with occupants Eric Ebron, Jack Doyle, and Mo-Alie Cox. If Hentges can continue to shine, especially vs the Bears this weekend, it will only greater his case to make the 53-man roster.
-Matthew Cava (@CavaM_)