Are you ready for this? Colts 30, Bears 17. I see the Colts winning big and here is why...
1. The Character Factor - Character matters! Time and time again we see the team with the most people who are willing to work hard and make the extra effort win. The Bears have more players who tote guns and openly admit they were thinking about going out to drink during a game on New Year's eve.
2. The Monkey Factor - The monkey is off the back of the Colts. With their win last week against the Pats, that extra weight is gone...look for them to fly.
3. The Defense Factor - The Bears just do not have the same defense as they did earlier in the year. The injuries they have experienced have turned them from the best defense to one that is average. For as much as Jack Buck was raving on TV about the Bears defense being back, it seemed to me like the Seahawks and Saints did not execute on offense. On the Colts side of the ball, with Bob Sander's back they are much more effective on...one that will have a field day with Rex Grossman.
4. The Experience Factor - Yes, I know that the Colts do not have Superbowl experience, but they have played more games on a national platform. They know what it at stake here and how hard it is to get to the big game. The Bears do not.
5. The Venturi Factor - While I think this game will not come down to a field goal, should it, having the pride of the Jack Rabbits on your sideline gives you huge confidence. Just knowing he is there is an edge.
6. The Implosion Factor - Rex Grossman would be the goat of the playoffs had the Seahawks held on to some of his errant throws. Devon Hester is capable of a big return or a disastrous fumble. The Colts are more disciplined with the ball.
As I see it, the only thing that tightens this game up is poor weather. If the Bears can make it a slug fest, they have a chance. But don't look for that to happen.
Colt's win easy and Manning puts the finishing touch on his Hall of Fame credentials.
