Jermon Bushrod has described Jared Allen as a "tough competitor" ahead of the Minnesota Vikings' trip to the Chicago Bears later today.

Allen, who set a team record for most sacks in a season in 2011, failed to take a sack against the Bears last season.

The Bears tackle told the team's official website: "He's a tough competitor. I've played him a few times and it's no letdown every play. He's going hard to the ball every single play, so I've got to be striking on all cylinders to get it done this week.

"We want to fight to keep our quarterback up as much as possible. Every game is not going to be like that. I wish it was but it's not going to be like that. We're going to fight for him.

"It's the same thing every week, week-in and week-out, try to minimise our mistakes and let our playmakers make plays. That's what it's all about. We don't want any credit. We just want to work and see those guys do what they were born to do, score touchdowns and make plays."

Both teams claimed one win in their two meetings last season.