NFL Betting Odds: Brian Griese Says He'll Bring Energy to the Bears' Huddle

Is Brian Griese the answer for the Bears? Lovie Smith thinks so. (AI Wire photo)

Now that Rex Grossman is on the sidelines and the haters have got their wish, Chicago turns its scrutiny on his replacement. Brian Griese isn't an unproven signalcaller, a retread or an over-the-hill QB.

The 10-year veteran has started with three franchises and owns a 63-percent completion percentage with teams that have needed him to do much more than the Bears will ask. Griese will need to protect the ball, improve the Bears' performance on third down and come up with timely plays. Those are the things Grossman failed to do for the defending NFC champions, who were blown out by Dallas at Soldier Field on Sunday and are now 1-2.

"First and foremost, as an offense we have to step up," Griese said Wednesday as the Bears prepare to travel to Detroit to face the Lions on Sunday. "I think that playing offense is an attitude, and I think since I've been here, the offense has been kind of second-class citizens. Hopefully I can bring a little bit of energy and enthusiasm to our huddle and to our game."

Coach Lovie Smith's move to Griese in Week 4 was predicted prior to the season in Bodog Nation's NFL season preview. The popular online magazine also offers free NFL picks each week. Find out who the writers like in the Bears-Lions matchup along with all the other games. The Bears are favored by 3 against the point spread.

For NFL odds on Week 4, visit the Bodog Sportsbook.