With a win on Sunday against the Chicago Bears (3-0) the Detroit Lions (2-1) can tie for first place in the NFC North. Here are five keys to the game:

1. Defense must pressure quarterback Jay Cutler all day long. Not only does he have a new-look offensive line protecting him, but this season he’s been getting the ball out quicker. In Cutler’s career he has a dozen touchdowns and just one interception in nine games against the Lions.

2. Chris Houston must keep the ball out of Brandon Marshall’s hands. Marshall has 20 catches, 269 yards and two touchdowns in the first three games.

3. Without Nate Burleson (broken arm), everyone on offense must step up. He won’t be replaced solely by one guy, look for a committee to help fill his role. It’s expected we’ll see more of Ryan Broyles and Reggie Bush in the slot with Kris Durham on the outside. Patrick Edwards is doubtful with an ankle injury. The Bears have given up nearly 300 passing yards per game.

4. The Lions should target cornerback Charles Tillman who missed practice Wednesday and Thursday, then was limited on Friday with knee and groin injuries. Doesn’t sound like he will be 100 percent.

5. Stop the run which means stop Matt Forte and don’t give Devin Hester a chance on returns.

Prediction: Lions 24, Bears 17

(Follow @PaulaPasche on Twitter. Order her book,  “100 Things Lions Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die’’ here. It’s also available at bookstores.)