Matt Ufford takes a look at the Cincinnati Bengals and Chicago Bears, two teams he believes will be among the best in their respective conferences in 2013. Jay Cutler could be due for a big-time redemption year if his restructured offensive line can keep off the turf. He'll also be hoping that wideout Brandon Marshall can return to form following offseason hip surgery. Defensively, the Bears' front seven will look odd without legendary linebacker Brian Urlacher roving from his middle linebacker spot.
Uffsides: Bengals vs. Bears Week 1 preview
Two of the top defenses in the NFL take on two of game’s best receivers, with Chicago looking to neutralize A.J. Green while Cincinnati tackles Brandon Marshall and the revamped Bears offense under new coach Marc Trestman.
The big question for the Bengals will be how they divvy up carries between BenJarvus Green-Ellis and second-round draft pick Giovani Bernard. The Law Firm is coming off a solid season and will likely receive the majority of the handoffs to begin the season, but the talented rookie may very well push him as the year goes along. James Harrison brings his hard-hitting style from Pittsburgh, but will need to prove he has a place in the Cincinnati defense.
