Bears Season Odds
The Chicago Bears made one of the boldest moves this offseason when they traded for quarterback Jay Cutler, formerly of the Denver Broncos.
Now that they finally have a quarterback, the Bears believe they’re set for big things in 2009.
The Bears traded two first round and one third round pick to the Broncos this offseason in exchange for Cutler, who fills a massive void for Chicago. The Bears believe that with Cutler under center, players like running back Matt Forte, receivers Devin Hester and Earl Bennett, as well as tight end Greg Olsen will benefit greatly.
The Bears hope that the additions of Orlando Pace, Frank Omiyale and Kevin Shaffer will also go a long way in solidifying the offensive line so that Cutler has time in the passing game, and Forte has plenty of open running lanes.
Oddsmakers from online sports book Sportsbook.com have made the Bears 30/1 long shots to win Super Bowl XLIV, but that number could certainly come down early in the season if Cutler performs well.
Chicago still has one of the better defenses in the NFL, led by linebackers Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs. The unit excels at creating havoc and causing turnovers. If the addition of Cutler generates more points, then the Bears are going to be tough to beat this season, at least in the NFC North. The price of 1.7/1 to win the NFC North isn’t great, but it might not get any better than it is right now, either (barring the Vikings’ possible addition of Brett Favre). At 9/1, Chicago’s odds to win the NFC is a decent value bet as well.
Odds to win Super Bowl XLIV
Chicago Bears 30/1
Odds to win the NFC 2009-2010
Chicago Bears 9/1
Odds to win the NFC North
Chicago Bears 1.7/1
Posted: 6/11/09 5:50PM ET