This has all the makings of a great football game. Head coach Sean Payton will continue to rely on QB Drew Brees and the short, controlled passing attack to set up the run against a Bears defense that thrives on creating turnovers. Defensive coordinator Ron Rivera must find a way to slow down the Saints' explosive passing attack that loves to spread the field, creating individual mismatches it can exploit on the back end in coverage.

Look for the Bears to rely on their running game to take pressure off QB Rex Grossman. Can Grossman put together two solid games and avoid multiple turnovers? Defensive coordinator Gary Gibbs must find a way to contain the Bears' rushing attack without giving up big explosive plays on the back end. Look for both teams to place a high emphasis on special teams this week, which could play a huge role in the outcome of this game. In the end, look for the Saints to continue their Cinderella season by upsetting the Bears and representing the NFC in Super Bowl XLI.

Prediction: Saints 27, Bears 24