How Bears tightened up QB Cutler's ball security

Offensive coordinator Adam Gase believes there are a number of reasons for Jay Cutler's improvement this year.

Cutler has thrown just 5 interceptions this season after 18 last season, and he's only lost 2 fumbles after coughing it up six times in 2014.

"We've got the turnovers down," Gase said. "We've got a long way to go. I think we've made some strides as far as our ball security in the pocket. I think a lot of it has been he's getting the ball out quick. He's been decisive. There's no hesitation.

"And he and (quarterbacks coach) Dowell (Loggains) have done a great job within practice being conscious about (ball security) and working on drills to make sure that we're better in that area."

Just as Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler will do Sunday, Cutler made his NFL debut with Denver back in 2006. Cutler, who was a 23-year-old rookie when he started his first game, says the situation is different for Osweiler, who turns 25 on Sunday and is in his fourth season. But that's just one difference.

"Backing up a guy like Peyton Manning, I've never had that opportunity," Cutler said. "You're not going to fill those shoes. It's going to be impossible the first start.

"(But) they're going to protect him. They're going to take some shots with him. They're going to run the ball effectively. I'm sure we're going to see some play-action and some boot(leg)s. They're going to do what's best for him, I'm sure."

Going gets tougher:

In Week 10 the Bears faced a Rams defense that was No. 5 in yards and No. 6 in points allowed.

Their opponent this week is even better. The Broncos are No. 1 in yards and No. 3 in points allowed.

"You can see the swagger, which they were developing last year," said Bears offensive coordinator Adam Gase, who held the same position the past two years in Denver. That was a good defense last year too, they were second in the league (in total yards allowed), and you can see the confidence. They're really enjoying playing with each other; they're physical. Once again, it's kind of like last week. You're playing a team that doesn't have holes. Whether it's in the run game or throwing the ball, protection, they're tops in the league in every category."

The Broncos are also No. 1 in sacks and passing yards and average gain per pass play allowed although they will be without linebacker DeMarcus Ware.

Injury report:

Wide receivers Eddie Royal (knee) and Alshon Jeffery did not practice Friday. Royal is out for Sunday but Jeffery is questionable.

Running back Matt Forte, and linebackers Pernell McPhee and Shea McClellin, all with knee injuries, are questionable after limited practices.

McPhee missed last week's game but expect to be back.

"My mentality is: I'm looking forward to playing the Denver Broncos," McPhee said. "I'm feeling great, and I'm ready for whatever challenge comes."

Safety Antrel Rolle (ankle), center Hroniss Grasu (neck) and offensive tackle Jermon Bushrod (shoulder) are all probable after full practices.

For the Broncos, quarterback Peyton Manning and linebacker DeMarcus Ware are out. Wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders and defensive ends Antonio Smith and Vance Walker are questionable.

Get there early:

Fans are encouraged to enter Soldier Field early for Sunday's noon game to avoid potential delays.

Additional security measures will be in place in and around the stadium. Gates open at 10 a.m.

The NFL's Bag and Purse Policy remains in place and will be strictly enforced. Oversized bags will not be allowed in.

For additional information on Soldier Field policies please visit: ChicagoBears.com/BagPolicy.

Bring it on:

With several inches of snow expected Saturday and falling temperatures, coach John Fox was asked if it was "Bears weather."

"This is football weather," Fox said. "I love this weather."

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