Chicago comes in ranked just 23rd in passing yards allowed (223.4 ypg), although that's a rather misleading statistic. Opponents have attempted more passes against the Bears than any other team, and the defense has surrendered just four touchdowns through the air while garnering six interceptions. Chicago limited the Lions to just 131 net passing yards last week despite playing without cornerback Nathan Vasher (13 tackles, 6 PD), who's slated to return opposite playmaker Charles Tillman (29 tackles, 2 INT, 9 PD) on Sunday after missing one game while recovering from minor wrist surgery. Tillman is coming off a banner day against Detroit in which he broke up four passes and returned an interception for a touchdown. Alex Brown (13 tackles, 3 sacks) added two sacks last week and will be called upon to apply heat to Ryan, as will fellow end Adewale Ogunleye (16 tackles, 1 sack).

Atlanta doesn't like to air it out a whole lot, as evidenced by the team's No. 25 ranking in passing offense (164.2 ypg), but Ryan (863 passing yards, 4 TD, 3 INT) and dangerous wide receiver Roddy White (26 receptions, 454 receiving yards, 2 TD) have begun to develop a strong rapport that's been detrimental to enemy secondaries. The pair has combined for 341 yards on 20 connections over the last three weeks, and White is fresh off an eight-catch, 132-yard outing in last week's win. Secondary receiver Michael Jenkins (9 receptions, 1 TD) is more valued for his blocking skills, but his 6-foot-4 frame provides an inviting possession target for Ryan, particularly within the red zone.

FANTASY FOCUS

Both Turner and Forte have developed into bona fide No. 1 fantasy running backs and clear-cut, every-week starters, and Turner owners should only be mildly concerned about his tough matchup this week. Forte appears to be set up for a big day against a soft Atlanta run defense, and the rookie has even been getting looks as a receiver in the red zone lately. Orton should make a decent starting option at quarterback, although he probably won't throw as much on Sunday as in previous weeks with the Bears likely to find success running the ball. Ryan is still only a lukewarm play right now, but White is a must-start as the Falcons' lone productive receiver. For those involved in leagues that count return yardage, Chicago's Hester makes for an excellent start at wide receiver and Atlanta's Norwood a candidate as a flex. Also use the Bears' defense if you've got it and consider Olsen, who's becoming more involved in the game plan, at tight end.

OVERALL ANALYSIS

Turner has averaged over 148 rushing yards in Atlanta's three wins, and less than 50 in the team's two losses, so it doesn't take a genius to figure out the key to the Falcons' success. The Bears are one of those teams capable of neutralizing Atlanta's running game, which will in turn make the still- learning Ryan a less effective passer. Chicago won't need to score a lot of points to extend its winning streak, but it should be able to get more than enough against a Falcons' defense that has yet to prove it can hold up against the run.

Sports Network Predicted Outcome: Bears 24, Falcons 13

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