Julius Peppers is known for getting to the QB. How well can Tebow avoid him? (Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

The Denver Broncos (7-5) finally return home to host a depleted Chicago Bears (7-5) team. This is the 14th meeting all-time between these two teams with the Bears holding a 7-6 advantage. The Bears end their AFC West swing against the Broncos, and they are 1-2 in the division with their only win coming against the San Diego Chargers. The Broncos are tied for first in the division with the Raiders. The Raiders take on the Packers in Green Bay so a win here would likely propel the Broncos into first place.

Offense

Broncos: The Broncos showed that they have a passing attack after Tim Tebow went 10-for-15 for 202 yards and 2 touchdowns against the Vikings. The passing game will have to step up to the plate again this week as this offense takes on an 8th ranked rush defense and a 28th ranked pass defense. The Broncos didn’t throw a lot against the Vikings, but they were efficient when they did throw, nailing receivers with big plays. That’s what happens when a team has the No. 1 ranked offense. Willis McGahee didn’t practice all week, but he is guaranteed to play on Sunday.

Bears: The Broncos have escaped one with Jay Cutler and Matt Forte out with injuries. Former CSU Ram Caleb Hanie is the team’s starting QB, and he’s been extremely susceptible to interceptions. He has just 2 touchdown passes and 6 interceptions on the season. With the team’s No. 1 rushing threat and No. 2 receiving threat also out, Marion Barber and Kahlil Bell have big shoes to fill. Barber and Bell have good hands like Forte, but the Bears won’t be using them the same way that they used Forte. The Bears gave up 7 sacks against the Chiefs last week so the Broncos will look to gain some ground there. Like last week against Percy Harvin, the Broncos will face some speedy receivers in Johnny Knox and Devin Hester. This offense only put up 3 points against the Chiefs last week.
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