The Andrew Luck Era will begin in earnest on Sunday as the top overall pick of the 2012 draft leads the Indianapolis Colts into historic Soldier Field to take on the Chicago Bears. The Colts' brass felt the time was right to let stud quarterback Peyton Manning depart in favor of Luck, who has seamlessly stepped into the team's system after excelling at Stanford. A promising preseason is just what the doctor ordered after Indianapolis limped to a 2-14 finish in 2011. The club fired Jim Caldwell and handed Chuck Pagano the task of guiding the Colts through their transition phase.

While growing pains are expected in Indianapolis, Chicago is entertaining lofty expectations as talented wide receiver Brandon Marshall attempts to recreate his undeniable chemistry with former Denver Broncos teammate and current Bears quarterback Jay Cutler. Chicago also boasts an impressive backfield. Versatile Matt Forte, who signed a four-year, $32 million deal in the offseason, will join backup Michael Bush in providing a 1-2 punch - with the latter expected to take care of the goal-line responsibilities.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Bears -9.5. O/U: 43.

ABOUT THE COLTS (2011: 2-14): Although Luck has proven veteran wideout Reggie Wayne at his disposal, the remainder of his receiving corps is learning on the fly as well. Luck will see a familiar face in fellow Stanford tight end Coby Fleener, who will have a homecoming on Sunday. The Illinois native is expected to join Dwayne Allen in a two tight-end set. Donald Brown, who has been elevated to the role of starter, rushed for a career-best 645 yards and five touchdowns last year.

ABOUT THE BEARS (2011: 8-8): Although injuries to Cutler and Forte derailed the Bears' postseason aspirations last season, there are high hopes for Lovie Smith's charges in 2012. For Chicago to succeed, Brian Urlacher will need to be on the field. The eight-time Pro Bowl middle linebacker sprained his medial collateral ligament and posterior cruciate ligament in last year's season finale. Urlacher went through a full practice Wednesday and is expected to play Sunday, although he may see limited time.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Marshall may see a familiar face when he lines up on Sunday. Former Dolphins cornerback Vontae Davis joined the Colts in the offseason.

2. Colts WR Austin Collie has been cleared to play after overcoming his fifth concussion since the start of the 2010 season.

3. Chicago won the team's last meeting during the 2008 Kickoff Weekend. Forte raced 50 yards for a touchdown and linebacker Lance Briggs returned a fumble 21 yards for a score as the Bears posted a 29-13 victory on Sept. 7, 2008.