Will this Bear play for Chicago Against the 49ers?

The Chicago Bears should forget about interpreting Cedric Benson's body language.

On Wednesday at Halas Hall, Benson's words portrayed a running back as frustrated as he is confused about his role with the Chicago Bears.

Asked about the promise of increased playing time this week against the San Francisco 49ers that offensive coordinator Ron Turner delivered on the team's weekly radio show Monday night on WBBM-AM 780, Benson revealed how far out of the loop he feels. Either that or he needs to get an AM radio.

''If they are planning on it, I wish they could tell me so I could prepare instead of like hoping I can catch the hint,'' Cedric Benson said. ''I wish they'd be a little more upfront and more businesslike about the situation. I hope they're not planning on doing something and not telling me.''

Turner later took responsibility for the failure to inform Benson of the Bears' plan to insert him for the third series against San Francisco. But Turner's valiant effort to protect his player came too late to undo the additional damage Benson had inflicted on his reputation as a moody malcontent.

Before taking a swipe at the coaching staff's lack of communication during Wednesday's open locker room, Benson had complained about the difficulties of finding a rhythm with no clear-cut rotation behind starter Thomas Jones.

''It's hard to get into one when you're in for a series, out for a couple, in for a couple, out for a quarter,'' Benson said.

He had one carry at Arizona after a season-high 14 against Buffalo.

''I have no idea on a week-to-week basis,'' he said.

Coach Lovie Smith, suddenly a friend of the First Amendment, defended Benson's right to express himself. Well, with a perfect start so far in the NFL Football season, Chicago Bears head coach Lovie Smith can get away with basically anything.

Who will win this week's game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Chicago Bears? Bet and play WagerTalk's NFL Football Handicapping Contest and decide for yourself. Make your pick now.

All Star Sportsbook has the odds for this week's NFL Football game on Sunday:

San Francisco 49ers +16.5

Chicago Bears -16.5