Fantasy football: Matt Forte, Michael Bush could boost stats in passing game vs. Lions in Week 7

Chicago Bears running backs Matt Forte and Michael Bush have certainly kept fantasy football owners guessing in 2012. Expect more of the same on Monday night when Chicago takes on the Detroit Lions in Week 7 action. Forte and Bush have each carried the ball 58 times this season, with mixed (but mainly positive) results for both men. Forte has produced 270 yards and one touchdown, while Bush has collected 206 yards and three touchdowns. However, the Lions have been more vulnerable through the air (No. 16 passing defense) than they have been on the ground (No. 12 rushing defense).

The good news for both players is that they have been producing well in the passing game -- Forte holds a 10.6 yards per reception average on 10 catches, and Bush has brought in 10.4 per catch on five grabs. The Lions have allowed opposing quarterbacks to post a cumulative 94.8 QB Rating so far in 2012, so perhaps Jay Cutler can open up running lanes for the Bears running backs on Monday night. The Lions have given up a lot of completions, but they've allowed the lowest total of 20+ yard gains in the passing game (10 such plays) on the year. Look for Chicago's RBs to contribute with short passing plays in Week 7.