Match 'em up

Today's matchup: Colts right end Dwight Freeney vs. Bears left tackle John Tait

Freeney can play like a missile at times, firing off the line of scrimmage, and can beat the best left tackles with his explosiveness. Although he had only 5½ sacks this season after averaging 12.8 in his first four years, he's a major concern for Tait, who occasionally struggles against speed rushers. Tait battled a sprained left ankle down the stretch and missed two games but is better now. He'll get help from time to time with backs chipping, especially in play action.

"The biggest thing that stands out is he's such a high-motor guy," said one assistant coach who faced Freeney this season. "He doesn't quit, and he doesn't take a play off. That's what sets him apart. You can pound him, though. The Bears will run right at him."

Freeney is undersized at 6-1, 268 pounds, but he can generate a bull rush because he uses such good pad level. Tait has good quickness for a tackle and moves well to the second level. He can play a little high at times, though, and if he does that, Freeney will be able to turn the corner in no time. The Bears likely will try to slow Freeney and left end Robert Mathis by pounding the Colts with the running game early.