I know that the 0-4 Panthers are playing the 3-1 Bears. I know that Julius Peppers is out to make this a statement game. I know that statistically the Bears' defense should obliterate the Panthers offensive.

Still, I say Sunday’s game is winnable… so long as the Panthers defense comes ready.

For the offensively challenged Panthers to win, defensive coordinator Ron Meeks must get the Panthers defense back to its elite 2009 status. That hasn’t happened so far this season, thanks in part to the loss of Thomas Davis (injury), Julius Peppers (free agency), Ma'ake Kemoeatu (free agency) and Chris Harris (free agency).

Last year’s Panthers gave up only two passing plays longer than 25 yards. This year, with an offense that’s currently ranked 28th in passing, 32nd in scoring and 30th in total yards (out of 32 NFL teams), the defense not only needs to keep opponents from scoring but force turnovers as well.

Meeks knows this philosophy well. As defensive coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts, his players were known for swarming the ball and setting up scoring opportunities for the offense.

With the Panthers starting a rookie quarterback and several rookie receivers this weekend, the defense must take control -- much like the defense did for the 2000 Baltimore Ravens.

Last week against the New Orleans Saints, after Panthers receiver Steve Smith left the game injured, offensive coordinator Jeff Davis apparently called his plays off of the children’s menu, because he offered only three choices the rest of the game -- run right, run left, run up the middle. With Smith still injured, winning the game will fall to Meeks’ defense.

Given the Bears offensive woes, this is not such a lofty goal.

First, Jay Cutler will not be playing after suffering a concussion last week, so the Bears quarterback duties will be handed off to veteran Todd Collins, who has taken fewer snaps than Clausen this year.

Second, the Bears receiving core wasn’t threatening to begin with, and certainly will be less so without Cutler’s strong arm.

Finally, don’t let the 3-1 record fool you. The Bears currently are 23rd in points scored, 25th in total yards and 31st in rushing yards.

Despite being winless, the Panthers should be going into next week’s bye on a three-game winning streak, having beaten the Bengals, Saints and Bears – OH, MY!!! On Sunday, the Panthers need to click their cleats and return to a 2009 defensive form, because Kansas City isn’t on the schedule any more (Thank God).

The Panthers need a victory Sunday, and I’m predicting they’ll get one.
 

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