This injury update extends to the conditions at Soldier Field. The NFL says that the field is "in good shape." Even if it's not that good, the Packers have played late season games at Soldier Field in recent years, and the field conditions should not be a surprise to them. Also, while it's going to be cold, it shouldn't be sub-zero and there's only a chance of snow flurries.
Nearly every team (except the Colts) have been healthier this season then the Packers. This week there are twelve Packers on the injury report. The complete list is at Packers.com:
OUT: LB Frank Zombo. QUESTIONABLE: OL Jason Spitz. PROBABLE: LB Diyral Briggs, LT Chad Clifton, LB A.J. Hawk, DE Cullen Jenkins, FB John Kuhn, CB Pat Lee, LB Clay Matthews, DE Ryan Pickett, LB Erik Walden, CB Charles Woodson.
Zombo is out again (he hasn't played since December 12th against the Lions) but Walden's played very well in his absence. Depth at linebacker remains a concern, but it hasn't been a problem in recent weeks. Spitz rarely plays anyway. And all the players listed as probable will play.
Unlike the Packers, the Bears (just as the Falcons were the week before) have been one of the healthiest teams in the NFL. Only two players are listed on their injury report, and only one might not play. But just as the Falcons loss of nickel CB Brian Williams was a critical one, the absence of S Chris Harris might be similar. He's vowed to play on Sunday, but that might not be realistic. Rookie S Major Wright could become a target.
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