The Green Bay Packers will start off Week 2 of the 2012 NFL Season by facing off against the Chicago Bears this Thursday night at 8:20pm ET. The Packers were victorious in both matchups against the Bears in 2011, but Chicago has since upgraded their offense and will be a tougher matchup than the previous year.

In the first week of the football season, Chicago Quarterback Jay Cutler reunited with former 2008 Denver Broncos teammate Brandon Marshall, who snagged nine passes for 119 yards and one touchdown.

The Bears filled a large void when dealt for Marshall from the Miami Dolphins in exchange for some draft picks. The star wideout produced some great numbers in "07" and "08" with the Broncos and accumulated over 1200 receiving yards in 2011.

Unfortunately for Green Bay, their offense was not as nearly as productive as the Bears, as they only racked up a miniscule 45 yards in rushing in Week 1. If the Packers are going to re-establish themselves as a feared running team, they will have to produce against the top-notch defenses around the league.

Green Bay must stop former teammate and current Bears running back Cedric Benson from breaking open against their defense. However, the talented Alex Green will be available to come off the bench for him if need be.

The Packers will look to reignite their superb offense behind quarterback Aaron Rogers, although wide receiver Green Jennings is out with a groin injury. If he does play, it is said to be in a limited capacity. This could potentially mean more time on the gridiron for Donald Driver, who did not play all that much in Week 1 against the 49ers.

Tight end Jermichael Finley will be a key factor in the Packers offensive machine as well, as he looks to replicate his seven catch performance from last week.

Although it is still early in the football season, the Packers must pull out a victory in order to regain their confidence for the grueling weeks ahead. What better place for a hot start then their home turf at Lambeau field against their old rivals the Chicago Bears.

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Tags
Football 2012, Television