Smart Guys: How we're picking Sunday's game

Weston Hodkiewicz (3-0)

Packers 30, Bears 21

This isn't a must-win game for the Packers as much as some would like to believe. However, Aaron Rodgers and the rest of the offense are too talented to sputter like they have in the early going. The Bears' questionable run defense should give Eddie Lacy the necessary room to establish himself. The question becomes if the defense can keep turning Jay Cutler over and controlling the Bears' growing arsenal of receiving weapons. If Dom Capers' unit can do that, the offense should be better equipped to hold up its end of the bargain this week.

Robert Zizzo (3-0)

Packers 27, Bears 24

Two things tip this game Green Bay's way: Aaron Rodgers is due for a breakout performance, and he's going against a defense he's very familiar with; and the Bears will be missing or have nicked-up starters in the secondary, on the defensive and offensive lines, and at receiver. If neither of those points were factors, I'd have the Bears winning by a touchdown.

Pete Dougherty (2-1)

Packers 28, Bears 24

The Bears have some big-time weapons, and if Jay Cutler keeps his poise for 60 minutes, they could win going away. But he's struggled against Dom Capers' defenses. And though it's not a great reason for picking the Packers to win, it still seems like they're too talented to start 1-3.

Ryan Wood (2-1)

Packers 27, Bears 24

It's all about the running game. Green Bay enters with the league's 26th rushing offense. Chicago enters with the 26th rushing defense. Something has to give. The difference between these two teams? Quality of opponent. The Packers have played three of the NFL's top four rushing defenses. Two of the Bears' opponents rank outside the NFL's top 10 in rushing offense. Chicago's defense is depleted. Green Bay will take advantage this afternoon.