While many Bears fans were unhappy that coach Lovie Smith was not among the personnel let go by the organization earlier this week, I think the ownership made the right decision.
Letting go of Ron Turner was long overdue. While I’m sure he is a capable offensive coordinator, I don’t think he had a clear vision of what he wanted to accomplish with the Bears’ offense, nor did he have the most talented players to work with. It is clearly time to bring on someone else on board who can look at things with a fresh eye.
On the other hand, Smith can thank his players for keeping his job. The players rallied to win the final two games of the season to finish 7-9, and many of them spoke out in his favor in the days leading up to Tuesday’s purge. Sometimes as fans, we are so focused on seeing results on the field that we overlook the importance of the relationship between a coach and his players off of it.
Firing Lovie would have hurt this team more than it would have helped them, especially in terms of morale and rapport. Knowing how much the players respected their head coach was, I’m sure, a key factor in their decision to keep him on board. While I’m sure both Lovie Smith and Jerry Angelo were given ultimatums – “win or else” – I predict that both will be part of this team a year from now, and fans will be grateful that Smtih wasn't fired. I expect the Bears to be rejuvenated as a result of some of the changes in the offensive coaching staff, and that should help them perform better overall. Look for the 2010 season to be a big improvement over 2009.
Showing posts with label Chicago Bears. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chicago Bears. Show all posts
Friday, January 08, 2010
Monday, January 04, 2010
Is There Any Love Left for Lovie?
It may be a matter of days, or even hours, before we all know the fate of Bears’ head coach Lovie Smith. In recent weeks, Smith’s popularity has dropped to an all-time low. He has quickly lost favor with fans over the team’s dismal performance this season, which ended yesterday with a 7-9 record, despite beating the Detroit Lions 37-23. Not exactly what the fans had expected at the start of the season and not after the Bears traded QB Kyle Orton to Denver for Jay Cutler last April
While fans are disappointed, the players continue to support and praise their coach (see this Tribune story). But is that enough to keep Lovie here?
While most folks want and expect a complete overhaul of the coaching staff, I think GM Jerry Angelo will decide to keep Smith for one more season, if anything because it may be more costly to replace him. It will mean another transitional year of learning to adapt to a new coaching style, and I’m not sure Angelo wants to go in that direction – yet.
However, I think other staffing changes will be made, including the firing of offensive coordinator Ron Turner, who hasn’t exactly charmed fans with his offensive ingenuity. I also think several other coaches and assistants will be fired.
Stay tuned. The Lovie watch begins.
While fans are disappointed, the players continue to support and praise their coach (see this Tribune story). But is that enough to keep Lovie here?
While most folks want and expect a complete overhaul of the coaching staff, I think GM Jerry Angelo will decide to keep Smith for one more season, if anything because it may be more costly to replace him. It will mean another transitional year of learning to adapt to a new coaching style, and I’m not sure Angelo wants to go in that direction – yet.
However, I think other staffing changes will be made, including the firing of offensive coordinator Ron Turner, who hasn’t exactly charmed fans with his offensive ingenuity. I also think several other coaches and assistants will be fired.
Stay tuned. The Lovie watch begins.
Five Things to Look Forward to in 2010
Happy New Year! The holidays have come and gone, but there’s still plenty to look forward to in the coming year. Here are five sports events I’m looking forward to watching in 2010.
1. Blackhawks Stanley Cup run — The way the Hawks are playing lately, winning eight of their last 10 games and currently sitting atop their conference standings with 61 points, you have to believe this is their year to make it to the Stanley Cup finals.
2. White Sox starting rotation — While most of the lineup and bullpen is still a big question mark, the White Sox starting rotation of Jake Peavy, Mark Buehrle, John Danks, Gavin Floyd and Freddie Garcia makes me yearn for the start of the baseball season.
3. Winter Olympics in Vancouver — The Olympic Games are one of my favorite sports events, and this year is no exception. Several athletes will be worth watching, including: skier Lindsay Vonn, who could medal in four of the five alpine ski events she’s participating in; Apolo Ono, who could surpass Bonnie Blair in number of Olympic medals won, speed skater Shani Davis, who could win several medals, and figure skater Evan Lysacek, the current world champion who will challenge a very deep men’s field for a gold medal.
4. Illinois colleges in NCAA/NIT post-season play — Illinois, Illinois State, Southern Illinois, Loyola (Chicago) and Northwestern are among the state-based schools with winning records in college basketball. Look for most, if not all of them, to be involved in either the NCAA or NIT tournaments.
5. Better performances by the Chicago Bears — After a disappointing 7-9 season, the Bears can only get better, right? Give Cutler another year in the Bears’ organization, with a new offensive coordinator who can create a game plan that will capitalize on Cutler’s talents. Give him a stronger, faster offensive line and better, faster receivers. Then watch this team take off in 2010.
1. Blackhawks Stanley Cup run — The way the Hawks are playing lately, winning eight of their last 10 games and currently sitting atop their conference standings with 61 points, you have to believe this is their year to make it to the Stanley Cup finals.
2. White Sox starting rotation — While most of the lineup and bullpen is still a big question mark, the White Sox starting rotation of Jake Peavy, Mark Buehrle, John Danks, Gavin Floyd and Freddie Garcia makes me yearn for the start of the baseball season.
3. Winter Olympics in Vancouver — The Olympic Games are one of my favorite sports events, and this year is no exception. Several athletes will be worth watching, including: skier Lindsay Vonn, who could medal in four of the five alpine ski events she’s participating in; Apolo Ono, who could surpass Bonnie Blair in number of Olympic medals won, speed skater Shani Davis, who could win several medals, and figure skater Evan Lysacek, the current world champion who will challenge a very deep men’s field for a gold medal.
4. Illinois colleges in NCAA/NIT post-season play — Illinois, Illinois State, Southern Illinois, Loyola (Chicago) and Northwestern are among the state-based schools with winning records in college basketball. Look for most, if not all of them, to be involved in either the NCAA or NIT tournaments.
5. Better performances by the Chicago Bears — After a disappointing 7-9 season, the Bears can only get better, right? Give Cutler another year in the Bears’ organization, with a new offensive coordinator who can create a game plan that will capitalize on Cutler’s talents. Give him a stronger, faster offensive line and better, faster receivers. Then watch this team take off in 2010.
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Bears-Hawks Ads Blacked Out by NFL
The National Football League has pulled the plug on an innovative ad campaign (which I wrote about in early October) that was being developed featuring members of the Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Bears, according to Phil Rosenthal of the Chicago Tribune. The ads were shot in October and were in production when word came down from the league that the ads are a No-Go.
Apparently, the NFL prohibits the use of team marks and logos to promote other sports. That’s too bad. I was really looking forward to seeing the ads featuring Jay Cutler and Jonathon Toews trading passing tips.
The cancelled campaign hurts the Bears more than it does the Hawks, who are the best game in town at the moment. After a subpar performance on the field this season, the Bears could use a little bit of the Hawks’ magic.
Apparently, the NFL prohibits the use of team marks and logos to promote other sports. That’s too bad. I was really looking forward to seeing the ads featuring Jay Cutler and Jonathon Toews trading passing tips.
The cancelled campaign hurts the Bears more than it does the Hawks, who are the best game in town at the moment. After a subpar performance on the field this season, the Bears could use a little bit of the Hawks’ magic.
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Urlacher Speaks Out, But No One Wants to Hear the Truth
Bears’ linebacker Brian Urlacher has been getting a great deal of flak since speaking out about QB Jay Cutler and the team’s poor play this season. Everyone’s getting upset that Urlacher, who has been out since the season opener with an injury, is picking on Cutler. But anyone who reads his comments more closely will realize that Urlacher wasn’t taking pot shots at Cutler; he was criticizing the Bears organization, coaches and staff.
Urlacher was right about several things. Kyle Orton is not a flashy player, but he still has the ability to win games. He is also correct that the team’s cutlure has changed with the addition of Cutler. In the past, you could always count on the Bears’ running game and defense to win games. That’s how they won Super Bowl XX in 1986. But not anymore. With Cutler at the helm, the running game has all but disappeared, and the Bears' offense is predicated on throwing the ball three-fourths of the time.
The problem is the Bears didn’t bother to provide Cutler with the tools to succeed with this team: good coaching, an effective game plan, a dependable offensive line and receivers. They simply inserted him into the huddle and told him to run the team. When the game plan is predicated on passing three-fourths of the time without the talent to throw to and an offensive line to protect him, you can expect mistakes, especially as opposing defenses know what to expect. And then we all wonder why Cutler has thrown a league-leading 19 interceptions so far this season.
I don’t think this is Cutler’s fault entirely, although certainly he has to take some responsibility. The problem is the system does not work. It hasn’t worked for a long time, not with Orton, not with Rex Grossman, not with Jim Miller, Erik Kramer, Jim Harbaugh or any other quarterback the Bears have put out on the field over the last few decades. And I think the Bears’ organization knows this on some level, but may not know how to fix it.
To contend next season, the Bears will need to clean house, beginning with head coach Lovie Smith and offensive coordinator Ron Turner. Both have had their opportunities to turn this team around, but the fact is, their coaching system does not work. Changing their quarterback coach Pep Hamilton (yes, the Bears do have a QB coach, contrary to some reports) wouldn’t be a bad idea either.
Sadly, with so many changes the Bears need to make and with the quality of talent in the division with the Packers and Vikings, it’s going to take a while before the Bears contend for another division title.
Urlacher was right about several things. Kyle Orton is not a flashy player, but he still has the ability to win games. He is also correct that the team’s cutlure has changed with the addition of Cutler. In the past, you could always count on the Bears’ running game and defense to win games. That’s how they won Super Bowl XX in 1986. But not anymore. With Cutler at the helm, the running game has all but disappeared, and the Bears' offense is predicated on throwing the ball three-fourths of the time.
The problem is the Bears didn’t bother to provide Cutler with the tools to succeed with this team: good coaching, an effective game plan, a dependable offensive line and receivers. They simply inserted him into the huddle and told him to run the team. When the game plan is predicated on passing three-fourths of the time without the talent to throw to and an offensive line to protect him, you can expect mistakes, especially as opposing defenses know what to expect. And then we all wonder why Cutler has thrown a league-leading 19 interceptions so far this season.
I don’t think this is Cutler’s fault entirely, although certainly he has to take some responsibility. The problem is the system does not work. It hasn’t worked for a long time, not with Orton, not with Rex Grossman, not with Jim Miller, Erik Kramer, Jim Harbaugh or any other quarterback the Bears have put out on the field over the last few decades. And I think the Bears’ organization knows this on some level, but may not know how to fix it.
To contend next season, the Bears will need to clean house, beginning with head coach Lovie Smith and offensive coordinator Ron Turner. Both have had their opportunities to turn this team around, but the fact is, their coaching system does not work. Changing their quarterback coach Pep Hamilton (yes, the Bears do have a QB coach, contrary to some reports) wouldn’t be a bad idea either.
Sadly, with so many changes the Bears need to make and with the quality of talent in the division with the Packers and Vikings, it’s going to take a while before the Bears contend for another division title.
Monday, November 02, 2009
Memories of "Sweetness"
It's hard to believe that it's been 10 years since Walter Payton died of liver cancer. To commemorate this anniversary, the Chicago Bears honored "Sweetness" during half-time of Sunday's game at Soldier Field. You can watch the video of the tribute on the Bears' Web site.
I have a few of my own memories of Walter Payton. During the mid 1980s, a friend and I made several trips to the Bears' summer camp facility in Platteville, Wis., to watch the team's practices. I have only one photo of Payton from those trips. Yes, that's Walter in yellow lightheartedly brandishing a golf club to ward off fans as he got into a car. This was about as close as I would ever get to football's greatest running back.
I have a few of my own memories of Walter Payton. During the mid 1980s, a friend and I made several trips to the Bears' summer camp facility in Platteville, Wis., to watch the team's practices. I have only one photo of Payton from those trips. Yes, that's Walter in yellow lightheartedly brandishing a golf club to ward off fans as he got into a car. This was about as close as I would ever get to football's greatest running back.We miss you, #34.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Bears, Hawks Launch Ad Campaign
I’m eager to see the new series of ads that will promote the Chicago Bears and Chicago Blackhawks. The ads, which will begin airing in a few weeks, will feature members of both teams in various scenarios. For example, Bears’ quarterback Jay Cutler and Hawks’ captain Jonathan Toews exchange tips on passing.
The ad campaign is unique in that the teams are aligning their brands to reach their fan base, something they apparently share. According to a Chicago Tribune story, 92 percent of hockey fans are also football fans.
The Hawks wanted to reach out to this fan base and approached the Bears to see if they were interested. They even offered to foot the bill for production and air time. The Bears have nothing to lose since they are already well-known worldwide. The Hawks, on the other hand, are trying to capitalize on the buzz they created last year when they surpassed everyone’s expectations in reaching the NHL’s Western Conference finals before losing to the Detroit Red Wings.
If these ads do well, I’m willing to bet the other teams in town -- the Cubs, White Sox, Bulls and Fire – will look to join forces to cross-promote their brands.
The ad campaign is unique in that the teams are aligning their brands to reach their fan base, something they apparently share. According to a Chicago Tribune story, 92 percent of hockey fans are also football fans.
The Hawks wanted to reach out to this fan base and approached the Bears to see if they were interested. They even offered to foot the bill for production and air time. The Bears have nothing to lose since they are already well-known worldwide. The Hawks, on the other hand, are trying to capitalize on the buzz they created last year when they surpassed everyone’s expectations in reaching the NHL’s Western Conference finals before losing to the Detroit Red Wings.
If these ads do well, I’m willing to bet the other teams in town -- the Cubs, White Sox, Bulls and Fire – will look to join forces to cross-promote their brands.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Orton's Success Should Come as No Surprise
Bears fans who watched the Denver Broncos’ overtime victory over New England yesterday are probably wondering, “Why couldn’t Kyle Orton have played this way when he was with the Bears?”
While I’m as surprised as everyone else that the Broncos are unbeaten at 5-0, I’m not as surprised to see Orton perform as well as he has. In my blog last April after the Orton-Cutler trade, I wondered if Orton would have enjoyed better success in Chicago if he had better receivers to throw to, a younger, quicker offensive line to protect him, and a game plan that featured his strengths as a quarterback.
During his three years in Chicago, Orton was much maligned and underrated. Yet, for all his flaws, he posted a 21-12 career record with the Bears and had a .667 regular season winning percentage, the fourth highest among Bears quarterbacks since 1961. Being traded to Denver in the offseason provided the perfect opportunity to jumpstart his career. Now he has a chance to play every week with many of the players and offensive schemes that helped Cutler be so successful last season.
While it’s still early in the 2009 football campaign, it appears that this trade has worked out well so far for all parties. Cutler’s talents and leadership on the field is forcing the rest of the Bears team, especially the receivers, to raise their game to his level. Meanwhile, Orton, who went to a team with many offensive weapons already in place, has raised his game to match theirs.
If Orton’s performance so far this season proves anything, it’s this: Football is still a team sport. Winning depends on having a balanced attack: offense, defense, special teams and coaching. When all these elements are in place, you don’t need to be the most talented quarterback on the block to win in the National Football League. You just have to be a smart one.
While I’m as surprised as everyone else that the Broncos are unbeaten at 5-0, I’m not as surprised to see Orton perform as well as he has. In my blog last April after the Orton-Cutler trade, I wondered if Orton would have enjoyed better success in Chicago if he had better receivers to throw to, a younger, quicker offensive line to protect him, and a game plan that featured his strengths as a quarterback.
During his three years in Chicago, Orton was much maligned and underrated. Yet, for all his flaws, he posted a 21-12 career record with the Bears and had a .667 regular season winning percentage, the fourth highest among Bears quarterbacks since 1961. Being traded to Denver in the offseason provided the perfect opportunity to jumpstart his career. Now he has a chance to play every week with many of the players and offensive schemes that helped Cutler be so successful last season.
While it’s still early in the 2009 football campaign, it appears that this trade has worked out well so far for all parties. Cutler’s talents and leadership on the field is forcing the rest of the Bears team, especially the receivers, to raise their game to his level. Meanwhile, Orton, who went to a team with many offensive weapons already in place, has raised his game to match theirs.
If Orton’s performance so far this season proves anything, it’s this: Football is still a team sport. Winning depends on having a balanced attack: offense, defense, special teams and coaching. When all these elements are in place, you don’t need to be the most talented quarterback on the block to win in the National Football League. You just have to be a smart one.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Impressive Bears’ Victory Bodes Well for 2009 Season
I realize it’s only the third game of the pre-season, but if last night’s victory over the Denver Broncos’ is any indication, the Bears should perform well once the NFL season officially begins.
What impressed me the most about last night’s effort was that the Bears’ offense, defense and special teams all contributed to the victory. It was a well-balanced effort and one that bodes well for the rest of the season, regardless how Brett Favre and the Vikings play.
Jay Cutler also proved that he is worthy of the franchise quarterback tag that many have put on him. The five-minute, 98-yard drive to end the first half was particularly impressive and showcased his leadership skills. He may have put to rest any lingering doubts people had about the Bears trading for him. Cutler also faced a hostile crowd, but managed well despite hearing a chorus of boos. If he can handle the pressure of playing in front of an angry crowd in his former home stadium, then Cutler can handle anything that comes his way.
That said, let’s not overlook the fact that the Bears did play the Denver Broncos, which proved to be a team that’s not quite ready for the regular season. Kyle Orton, the Broncos’ starting QB, left the game in the second quarter with an injured finger on his throwing hand which could affect his play down the road.
However, the Bears still have some issues in the secondary. Denver marched down the field in the third quarter to for a quick touchdown, burning a couple of Bears’ safeties in the process. And while the offensive line is much improved over last season, will it hold up after 17 weeks? Injuries are another question mark. As long as players stay healthy, the Bears could return to the playoffs as the NFC North champs.
What impressed me the most about last night’s effort was that the Bears’ offense, defense and special teams all contributed to the victory. It was a well-balanced effort and one that bodes well for the rest of the season, regardless how Brett Favre and the Vikings play.
Jay Cutler also proved that he is worthy of the franchise quarterback tag that many have put on him. The five-minute, 98-yard drive to end the first half was particularly impressive and showcased his leadership skills. He may have put to rest any lingering doubts people had about the Bears trading for him. Cutler also faced a hostile crowd, but managed well despite hearing a chorus of boos. If he can handle the pressure of playing in front of an angry crowd in his former home stadium, then Cutler can handle anything that comes his way.
That said, let’s not overlook the fact that the Bears did play the Denver Broncos, which proved to be a team that’s not quite ready for the regular season. Kyle Orton, the Broncos’ starting QB, left the game in the second quarter with an injured finger on his throwing hand which could affect his play down the road.
However, the Bears still have some issues in the secondary. Denver marched down the field in the third quarter to for a quick touchdown, burning a couple of Bears’ safeties in the process. And while the offensive line is much improved over last season, will it hold up after 17 weeks? Injuries are another question mark. As long as players stay healthy, the Bears could return to the playoffs as the NFC North champs.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Bears Featured in Prime Time in ‘09
The networks must be pleased as punch that the Chicago Bears’ acquired QB Jay Cutler. Why else would the Bears be featured in five prime time games next season, including the season opener against the Packers in Green Bay?
Here’s the schedule, and my early season predictions for each matchup. Of course, with injuries and other intangible factors, things could change (and they usually do). But at this point, the Bears should have a record of 11-5 to win the NFC North division.
Sun, Sept. 13 at Green Bay Packers NBC 7:20 p.m. Win
Sun, Sept. 20 vs. Pittsburgh Steelers CBS 3:15 p.m. Lose
Sun, Sept. 27 at Seattle Seahawks FOX 3:05 p.m. Win
Sun, Oct. 4 vs. Detroit Lions FOX noon Win
Sun, Oct. 11 Bye Week
Sun, Oct. 18 at Atlanta Falcons NBC 7:20 p.m. Lose
Sun, Oct. 25 at Cincinnati Bengals FOX noon Win
Sun, Nov. 1 vs. Cleveland Browns CBS noon Win
Sun, Nov. 8 vs. Arizona Cardinals FOX noon Lost
Thu, Nov. 12 at San Francisco NFLN 7:20 p.m. Win
Sun, Nov. 22 vs. Philadelphia Eagles NBC 7:20 p.m. Win
Sun, Nov. 29 at Minnesota Vikings FOX noon Lose
Sun, Dec. 6 vs. St. Louis Rams FOX noon Win
Sun, Dec. 13 vs. Green Bay Packers FOX noon Win
Sun, Dec. 20 at Baltimore Ravens FOX noon Lose
Mon, Dec. 28 vs. Minnesota Vikings ESPN 7:20 p.m. Win
Sun, Jan. 3 at Detroit Lions FOX noon Win
The Bears start training camp on Friday, July 31. The preseason schedule is as follows:
Aug. 15 at Buffalo, 6 p.m.
Aug 22 New York Giants, 7 p.m.
Aug. 30, at Denver, 7 p.m.
Sept: 3 Cleveland, 7 p.m.
Here’s the schedule, and my early season predictions for each matchup. Of course, with injuries and other intangible factors, things could change (and they usually do). But at this point, the Bears should have a record of 11-5 to win the NFC North division.
Sun, Sept. 13 at Green Bay Packers NBC 7:20 p.m. Win
Sun, Sept. 20 vs. Pittsburgh Steelers CBS 3:15 p.m. Lose
Sun, Sept. 27 at Seattle Seahawks FOX 3:05 p.m. Win
Sun, Oct. 4 vs. Detroit Lions FOX noon Win
Sun, Oct. 11 Bye Week
Sun, Oct. 18 at Atlanta Falcons NBC 7:20 p.m. Lose
Sun, Oct. 25 at Cincinnati Bengals FOX noon Win
Sun, Nov. 1 vs. Cleveland Browns CBS noon Win
Sun, Nov. 8 vs. Arizona Cardinals FOX noon Lost
Thu, Nov. 12 at San Francisco NFLN 7:20 p.m. Win
Sun, Nov. 22 vs. Philadelphia Eagles NBC 7:20 p.m. Win
Sun, Nov. 29 at Minnesota Vikings FOX noon Lose
Sun, Dec. 6 vs. St. Louis Rams FOX noon Win
Sun, Dec. 13 vs. Green Bay Packers FOX noon Win
Sun, Dec. 20 at Baltimore Ravens FOX noon Lose
Mon, Dec. 28 vs. Minnesota Vikings ESPN 7:20 p.m. Win
Sun, Jan. 3 at Detroit Lions FOX noon Win
The Bears start training camp on Friday, July 31. The preseason schedule is as follows:
Aug. 15 at Buffalo, 6 p.m.
Aug 22 New York Giants, 7 p.m.
Aug. 30, at Denver, 7 p.m.
Sept: 3 Cleveland, 7 p.m.
Sunday, April 05, 2009
Can Cutler Make the Cut?
I'm probably one of the few people in Chicago who did not jump for joy when the Bears traded for Jay Cutler last week. In the trade, the Bears gave up an awful lot -- perhaps too much --including QB Kyle Orton, two first round draft picks and a third round draft pick.
Sure, Cutler is a Pro Bowl quarterback with a career 87.0 rating, higher than any other quarterback in Bears' history. But I'm not convinced that he will have the immediate impact on the team that fans expect. He's coming from a more offensively focused AFC team, the Denver Broncos, with a better corps of receivers and a better offensive game plan. The Bears have always been, and always will be, a defensive team that depends on the running game. It makes me wonder how Cutler will fit in to the Bears' offensive scheme. The Bears' offense has been rather suspect in recent years, and that is not a knock on Kyle Orton, who probably would have performed better if he had better receivers and a younger, healthier offensive line in front of him.
Sow while Cutler is a definite upgrade at the QB position, I think it's unfair to expect him to perform with the same success as he had in Denver. The Bears must also upgrade the offensive line and the receivers. And the addition of offensive tackle Orlando Pace, who was acquired on the same day as the Cutler trade, should help. Still there's work to do for the Bears, and they know it.
Cutler's stats are wonderful, there's no doubt about that. But let's not expect miracles just yet. It may take two or three seasons for the remaining pieces of the puzzle to fall into place.
Sure, Cutler is a Pro Bowl quarterback with a career 87.0 rating, higher than any other quarterback in Bears' history. But I'm not convinced that he will have the immediate impact on the team that fans expect. He's coming from a more offensively focused AFC team, the Denver Broncos, with a better corps of receivers and a better offensive game plan. The Bears have always been, and always will be, a defensive team that depends on the running game. It makes me wonder how Cutler will fit in to the Bears' offensive scheme. The Bears' offense has been rather suspect in recent years, and that is not a knock on Kyle Orton, who probably would have performed better if he had better receivers and a younger, healthier offensive line in front of him.
Sow while Cutler is a definite upgrade at the QB position, I think it's unfair to expect him to perform with the same success as he had in Denver. The Bears must also upgrade the offensive line and the receivers. And the addition of offensive tackle Orlando Pace, who was acquired on the same day as the Cutler trade, should help. Still there's work to do for the Bears, and they know it.
Cutler's stats are wonderful, there's no doubt about that. But let's not expect miracles just yet. It may take two or three seasons for the remaining pieces of the puzzle to fall into place.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Bears Offensive Forecast for 2008: Foggy and Uncertain
I certainly hope the Bears know what they are doing. Based on the moves they’ve made so far this off season, I really wonder what direction this team is heading.
The receiving core took a big hit recently. After releasing veteran receiver Muhsin Muhammad, who was picked up by his former team Carolina Panthers, Bernard Berrian became a free agent and signed with the NFC North rival Minnesota Vikings (Ouch – that hurts!).
While signing Marty Booker and Brandon Lloyd helps, their signings may be knee-jerk reactions to the departures of Muhammad and Berrian rather than any clear-headed strategic planning on the Bears’ part. They had to act, and act fast.
Now, Huddle Up is reporting that the Bears could also lose Rashied Davis, a restricted free agent who is getting some serious looks from Buffalo, Seattle and Kansas City. The Bears offered Davis $927,000, but they have until April 18 to match any offer from another team. If Davis does sign elsewhere, the Bears will not be compensated in return because Davis came to the team in 2005 from the Arena Football League.
The Bears haven’t done much to improve their quarterback situation either, re-signing Rex Grossman for one more season and extending Kyle Orton’s contract for another year through 2009. The two QBs will fight it out during the pre-season to see who will be the regular season starter. The Bears also traded Brian Griese to Tampa Bay for a fourth round pick in the 2009 draft. The team will likely draft a quarterback next month, a prospect that will take several years to develop.
The look and feel of this offense at this point in the year doesn’t make me feel comfortable about the prospects for the 2008 season. I still think Grossman will start next season (he has more talent and a stronger arm) but his shaky confidence and frequent injuries have cut produced inconsistent results on the field. The short-term deal for Grossman underlines that fact that there wasn’t much talent available in the free agent or trade market that was any better than what the Bears currently have. It does buy the Bears time in reassessing the talent that might become available on the market during the 2008 season. My overall outlook for the Bears next season is foggy and uncertain. There are still too many questions and not enough answers.
And the Bears haven’t even begun to address the offensive line and running back positions.
The receiving core took a big hit recently. After releasing veteran receiver Muhsin Muhammad, who was picked up by his former team Carolina Panthers, Bernard Berrian became a free agent and signed with the NFC North rival Minnesota Vikings (Ouch – that hurts!).
While signing Marty Booker and Brandon Lloyd helps, their signings may be knee-jerk reactions to the departures of Muhammad and Berrian rather than any clear-headed strategic planning on the Bears’ part. They had to act, and act fast.
Now, Huddle Up is reporting that the Bears could also lose Rashied Davis, a restricted free agent who is getting some serious looks from Buffalo, Seattle and Kansas City. The Bears offered Davis $927,000, but they have until April 18 to match any offer from another team. If Davis does sign elsewhere, the Bears will not be compensated in return because Davis came to the team in 2005 from the Arena Football League.
The Bears haven’t done much to improve their quarterback situation either, re-signing Rex Grossman for one more season and extending Kyle Orton’s contract for another year through 2009. The two QBs will fight it out during the pre-season to see who will be the regular season starter. The Bears also traded Brian Griese to Tampa Bay for a fourth round pick in the 2009 draft. The team will likely draft a quarterback next month, a prospect that will take several years to develop.
The look and feel of this offense at this point in the year doesn’t make me feel comfortable about the prospects for the 2008 season. I still think Grossman will start next season (he has more talent and a stronger arm) but his shaky confidence and frequent injuries have cut produced inconsistent results on the field. The short-term deal for Grossman underlines that fact that there wasn’t much talent available in the free agent or trade market that was any better than what the Bears currently have. It does buy the Bears time in reassessing the talent that might become available on the market during the 2008 season. My overall outlook for the Bears next season is foggy and uncertain. There are still too many questions and not enough answers.
And the Bears haven’t even begun to address the offensive line and running back positions.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Grossman-Berrian Connection Must Stay in Tact
The Bears re-signed QB Rex Grossman to a one-year deal worth $3 million plus incentives on Saturday, which is good news or bad news depending on whether you’re a Grossman supporter or not. The good news is the Bears have not given up completely on Grossman. But a short-term deal only says the much-maligned QB must play with greater consistency if he wants to stay beyond next season. The bad news is that fans have to put up with this story line for yet another year.
But even though Grossman is signed, it means nothing if the Bears don’t re-sign wide receiver Bernard Berrian, who is also a free agent. Together, Grossman and Berrian make up one of the most electric pass play combinations in the NFL. The team needs to have both in the fold if they are going to see any kind of success in the passing game next year.
But even though Grossman is signed, it means nothing if the Bears don’t re-sign wide receiver Bernard Berrian, who is also a free agent. Together, Grossman and Berrian make up one of the most electric pass play combinations in the NFL. The team needs to have both in the fold if they are going to see any kind of success in the passing game next year.
Friday, October 05, 2007
Griese Fingers
I know it’s only one game, but it’s clear to me that Brian Griese is not the answer to the Bears’ offensive woes. After throwing three interceptions, including one for a Lions’ touchdown, in the Bears’ 37-27 loss Sunday, Griese showed he isn't that much better that Rex Grossman, whom he replaced at quarterback. As I mentioned last week in my blog, Griese is only a temporary solution. I still think Grossman has a lot of potential and I think he will rebound from this setback.
Don’t get me wrong. I like Brian Griese – but only as a backup. While he’s had some success as a starter in the NFL, I think he’s better suited in the backup role where he can spell a starter who might leave a game with an injury. The problem I have with Griese is this: if he were as good as Bears fans think he is, then why isn’t he still playing for Denver or Miami? Why hasn’t he had any consistent playing time with any one team? The truth is that Grossman was so awful in many fans’ minds, that they viewed Griese as a much better quarterback than he really is. The truth is, Griese isn’t that much better than Grossman. More experienced perhaps, but not much better.
A local TV station held a poll last week, asking viewers who they wanted to see as the starting quarterback. The winner in the QB sweepstakes was Kyle Orton with 62 percent of the vote, while Grossman got roughly one-third. Griese received none. A couple of sports fans I talked with Sunday during the White Sox finale at the Cell felt similarly. The best Bears’ QB, they told me, is sitting on the sidelines.
Don’t get me wrong. I like Brian Griese – but only as a backup. While he’s had some success as a starter in the NFL, I think he’s better suited in the backup role where he can spell a starter who might leave a game with an injury. The problem I have with Griese is this: if he were as good as Bears fans think he is, then why isn’t he still playing for Denver or Miami? Why hasn’t he had any consistent playing time with any one team? The truth is that Grossman was so awful in many fans’ minds, that they viewed Griese as a much better quarterback than he really is. The truth is, Griese isn’t that much better than Grossman. More experienced perhaps, but not much better.
A local TV station held a poll last week, asking viewers who they wanted to see as the starting quarterback. The winner in the QB sweepstakes was Kyle Orton with 62 percent of the vote, while Grossman got roughly one-third. Griese received none. A couple of sports fans I talked with Sunday during the White Sox finale at the Cell felt similarly. The best Bears’ QB, they told me, is sitting on the sidelines.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Grossman to Sit Out Against the Lions
Bears fans have been begging to see Brian Griese as the starting quarterback since the beginning of the 2006 season. Now they’ll finally get their wish. Griese will start for the Bears this Sunday against the Detroit Lions while Grossman watches from the sidelines.
I’ve always been a staunch supporter of Grossman, even after some of his worst performances last season which prompted most other fans to beg for a change in the quarterback position. But after seeing his showing during the Super Bowl last February and three subpar performances to start this season, I have to agree with coach Lovie Smith that it is time for “a breath of fresh air.” If there had been steady progress in Grossman’s play on the field – namely, fewer interceptions, better ball control and more touchdowns – I would have stuck with him as the leader on this team. I’m sure Lovie would have too. But I have seen nothing in recent weeks which leads me to think that Grossman is comfortable in the starting role. That might be the best thing for him right now. Mind you, this is a temporary solution. Griese is 39-33 as a backup in the NFL and has some solid credentials to his name. Despite his limited success, I don’t expect Griese to be the starter for the remainder of the season, only until he falters himself, gets injured or Grossman regains his confidence, whichever comes first.
I’ve always been a staunch supporter of Grossman, even after some of his worst performances last season which prompted most other fans to beg for a change in the quarterback position. But after seeing his showing during the Super Bowl last February and three subpar performances to start this season, I have to agree with coach Lovie Smith that it is time for “a breath of fresh air.” If there had been steady progress in Grossman’s play on the field – namely, fewer interceptions, better ball control and more touchdowns – I would have stuck with him as the leader on this team. I’m sure Lovie would have too. But I have seen nothing in recent weeks which leads me to think that Grossman is comfortable in the starting role. That might be the best thing for him right now. Mind you, this is a temporary solution. Griese is 39-33 as a backup in the NFL and has some solid credentials to his name. Despite his limited success, I don’t expect Griese to be the starter for the remainder of the season, only until he falters himself, gets injured or Grossman regains his confidence, whichever comes first.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Bears’ Running Game Going Nowhere
Tribune sports columnist David Haugh was right on in his assessment of the Bears’ ineffective running game in Sunday’s opening season loss to the San Diego Chargers. Heading into this season, I was more concerned about the Bears’ ability to run the ball and control the clock than I was with QB Rex Grossman’s offensive struggles. With the departure of running back Thomas Jones, who was traded to the New York Jets during the off season, the Bears must rely on Cedric Benson, a first-round draft pick from Texas now in his third season. Up to this point, Benson has shown little of his talent or promise on the field.
Ideally, an established running game will open up the passing game for Grossman who will have better play options available to him and the offense becomes a more balanced attack. But without a running game, Grossman will have to pass more, which means forcing passes he should not throw, miscues, interceptions and so on.
It all starts up front for the Bears. The offensive line needs to open up holes for Benson. They need to give Grossman plenty of time to see the whole field and make the right pass play choices. And they need to make sure defenders are properly blocked so they’re not running into Grossman’s face.
If the Bears cannot straighten out their offensive attack and running game any time soon, this could be a long, disappointing season for the Bears.
Ideally, an established running game will open up the passing game for Grossman who will have better play options available to him and the offense becomes a more balanced attack. But without a running game, Grossman will have to pass more, which means forcing passes he should not throw, miscues, interceptions and so on.
It all starts up front for the Bears. The offensive line needs to open up holes for Benson. They need to give Grossman plenty of time to see the whole field and make the right pass play choices. And they need to make sure defenders are properly blocked so they’re not running into Grossman’s face.
If the Bears cannot straighten out their offensive attack and running game any time soon, this could be a long, disappointing season for the Bears.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Bears Release Tank Johnson
Chicago Bears’ released defensive tackle Tank Johnson on Monday following his arrest in Arizona last week for speeding and suspicion of drunk driving. The arrest proved to be the final straw for the Bears who have given the beleaguered Johnson the benefit of the doubt since he started having off-field problems and run-ins with the law two years ago.
* In 2005, Johnson was arrested and pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge for possession of a handgun.
* Last December when police raided his suburban Chicago home, they found six unregistered guns, which was a violation of his 2005 arrest.
* In March, he served 60 days in jail for violating his probation on the weapons charge.
* Earlier this month, the NFL suspended Johnson eight games for the upcoming season for violating its personal conduct policy.
When Johnson was released from jail in May, he claimed he had turned a corner in his personal life and was going to do everything he could to be a model NFL player and citizen. “We are upset and embarrassed by Tank’s actions last week,” Bears’ GM Jerry Angelo said in a statement released by the team. “He compromised the credibility of our organization. We made it clear to him that he had no room for error.”
Some athletes never learn.
* In 2005, Johnson was arrested and pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge for possession of a handgun.
* Last December when police raided his suburban Chicago home, they found six unregistered guns, which was a violation of his 2005 arrest.
* In March, he served 60 days in jail for violating his probation on the weapons charge.
* Earlier this month, the NFL suspended Johnson eight games for the upcoming season for violating its personal conduct policy.
When Johnson was released from jail in May, he claimed he had turned a corner in his personal life and was going to do everything he could to be a model NFL player and citizen. “We are upset and embarrassed by Tank’s actions last week,” Bears’ GM Jerry Angelo said in a statement released by the team. “He compromised the credibility of our organization. We made it clear to him that he had no room for error.”
Some athletes never learn.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
A Bear of a Schedule
One of the few downsides to winning your division with a 13-3 record is earning a much tougher schedule the following season. By the look of the Bears’ 2007 regular schedule released today, the players and fans won’t have to wake up so early on game days. Ten of the team’s 16 games will be played in the late afternoon or evening, including a Monday night affair against the Minnesota Vikings on Dec. 17. Also, for the third consecutive season, the Bears will open on the road, this time against the San Diego Chargers. In addition to playing two games against their division rivals – the Vikings, Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers – the Bears also face Philadelphia, Dallas, Kansas City, Seattle, Denver, N.Y. Giants, Washington, Oakland and New Orleans.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Briggs Lets His Ego Do the Talking
For the past few weeks, Bears’ linebacker Lance Briggs has taken to the airwaves to complain about how the Bears are not willing to give him a long-term deal. Their offer of $7.2 million for one year just isn’t good enough, Briggs told ESPN, saying that there was not job security in the deal and he wants to be traded. If he wanted job security, why didn't he accept the Bears' six-year, $33-million dollar offer last season? He has threatened to sit out the entire 2007 season.
Briggs also complains that he wants to be treated as the number one guy on defense and as long as he is with the Bears and playing with Brian Urlacher that will never happen. He says that the Bears don’t respect him, but it seems like they respect him enough to offer a deal worth $7.2 million for one year. I know a lot of people who would not turn that kind of money down.
If you listen closely to Briggs, you can almost hear an echo of another high-profile NFL loudmouth – Terrell Owens. It’s no coincidence that the two players have the same agent – Drew Rosenhaus. I don't remember Briggs being so arrogant, so you wonder if this stunt is coming from him and if Rosenhaus is pulling the strings. I picture Rosenhaus manipulating the strings of a marionette puppet, while Briggs is the puppet.
I say, let Briggs sit out the season. After sitting out a whole year whining and grumbling, he'll realize that the six-year, $33 million offer was a pretty darn good deal after all.
Briggs also complains that he wants to be treated as the number one guy on defense and as long as he is with the Bears and playing with Brian Urlacher that will never happen. He says that the Bears don’t respect him, but it seems like they respect him enough to offer a deal worth $7.2 million for one year. I know a lot of people who would not turn that kind of money down.
If you listen closely to Briggs, you can almost hear an echo of another high-profile NFL loudmouth – Terrell Owens. It’s no coincidence that the two players have the same agent – Drew Rosenhaus. I don't remember Briggs being so arrogant, so you wonder if this stunt is coming from him and if Rosenhaus is pulling the strings. I picture Rosenhaus manipulating the strings of a marionette puppet, while Briggs is the puppet.
I say, let Briggs sit out the season. After sitting out a whole year whining and grumbling, he'll realize that the six-year, $33 million offer was a pretty darn good deal after all.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Jones’ Deal Opens Door for Benson
With the trade of running back Thomas Jones to the New York Jets on Monday, Cedric Benson now becomes the apparent starting back for the Bears next season. Jones’ trade was sudden and surprising, but then I suppose the two backs could not live happily ever after on the same Bears team. As rivals for the starting running back job, I got the sense that the two did not like each other. The fact is, if the Bears had kept both backs, both Jones and Benson would continue to be unhappy – Benson because he wasn’t getting enough playing time, and Jones, well, I guess he just didn’t like being a Bear. For the sake of keeping the peace, one of them had to go.
I liked Jones; he was reliable and productive, especially with the game on the line. I’m not convinced that Benson can do the same under similar circumstances. Perhaps with Jones safely tucked away in New York, Benson can step up and perform the way the Bears think he can, and give third-string RB Adrian Petersen an opportunity to contribute more. If Benson doesn’t deliver, the Bears better have a decent back-up plan.
I liked Jones; he was reliable and productive, especially with the game on the line. I’m not convinced that Benson can do the same under similar circumstances. Perhaps with Jones safely tucked away in New York, Benson can step up and perform the way the Bears think he can, and give third-string RB Adrian Petersen an opportunity to contribute more. If Benson doesn’t deliver, the Bears better have a decent back-up plan.
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