Bears not discouraged by betting spread

CHICAGO, Jan. 23 (UPI) -- Chicago Bears Coach Lovie Smith has brushed aside predictions from Las Vegas odds makers, saying his team thrives on being cast as underdogs.

Odds makers consider the team a 7-point betting underdog against the Indianapolis Colts in Super Bowl XLI, but Smith says the team is not discouraged, the Aurora (Ill.) Beacon News reported Tuesday.

"As far as us being underdogs, if you look at what all the Colts bring to the table I could see why (they) would make us underdogs," Smith said. "But we've been in that role before and our guys like the underdog role.

"I wouldn't bet against the Bears if I were a betting man."

Smith said he considers the situation similar to media predictions that the Bears would lose the NFC title game against the New Orleans Saints.

"I mean we acknowledge that most of you (media) thought we weren't going to win the football game, but as far as my motivating factor to the team, it was about, 'Hey we're a good football team, we've won more games than anybody else in the league, that's enough right there," Smith said. "Guys you're good, let's go out and do the things we normally do."