Sunday's "Battle of Interstate-65" is not only a rematch of the Indianapolis Colts' Super Bowl XLI win against the Chicago Bears, but it is also a reunion of sorts.
Chicago's third-year head coach, Matt Eberflus, makes his return to Lucas Oil Stadium to coach in his first regular season game in Indianapolis since January 2, 2022.
At that time, he was the Colts defensive coordinator, a position Eberflus held for four seasons. Although the two squads have met in a preseason contest in the 317 since Eberflus took the reins in Chicago, this will be the first time the Colts and Bears face off in the regular season since October 2020 when the latter were led by Matt Nagy.
Indianapolis center Ryan Kelly commented Monday on competing against the defensive-minded former Colt.
“I think there are enough guys on the team that played against his style (of) defense for a couple years – practicing against it every single day I think certainly gives us a good idea of who they are," Kelly said.
In fact, six regular contributors for Indianapolis' 2024 offense spent time practicing against Eberflus' Colts defense. On the other hand, no one for the Bears' defense suited up for the Horseshoe while Eberflus was the defensive coordinator.
"The core of that defense is movement, creating negative plays up front, rushing the passer," Kelly said. "For us, avoiding third-and-long is going to be huge for us and running the football efficiently and handling movement. He was a detailed coach when he was here, so I'm sure he's taking that as being a head coach. They'll have a good plan for us."
Both Indianapolis and Chicago have started 2024 winless, but the Bears' defense co-leads the NFL with nine team sacks compared to the Colts' three.
Chicago sits at 11th and 13th, respectively, in passing yards allowed and rushing yards allowed through two games.
MORE COLTS
Colts offense could get massive reinforcements in Week 3
NFL picks, predictions Week 3: Colts vs. Bears
Colts LB a top trade candidate for two contenders
