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.
Showing posts with label Rex Grossman. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rex Grossman. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
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.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Mannings Defend Bears' QB
"He can't win the Big Game."
"He always chokes when the game matters."
"He's great during the regular season, but can't win in the playoffs."
No, these comments aren't about Bears' QB Rex Grossman, although they could be. They're actually referring to Colts' QB Peyton Manning, who until this postseason, had received his own share of criticism about his (in)ability to lead his team to the Super Bowl. It's no wonder that both he and his father Archie have defended the much-maligned Grossman these past few days. Manning has been in his shoes.
Manning finally beat his nemesis, the New England Patriots, several weeks ago to reach the promised land in Miami. It only took him nine years in the NFL. Manning is 30 years old.
Grossman has a long way to go, but at age 26, he has already achieved something that Manning could only dream of at the same age -- playing in the Super Bowl. Contrary to many naysayers, Grossman has won a Big Game -- the NFC title game over the Saints two weeks ago, which the Bears won 39-14.
Yes, the Bears QB played horribly in front of 93 million TV viewers. But being the eternal optimist that I am, my guess is that he will learn from this experience and become a better quarterback in the long run, even if it means meeting with a sports psychologist to get there.
"He always chokes when the game matters."
"He's great during the regular season, but can't win in the playoffs."
No, these comments aren't about Bears' QB Rex Grossman, although they could be. They're actually referring to Colts' QB Peyton Manning, who until this postseason, had received his own share of criticism about his (in)ability to lead his team to the Super Bowl. It's no wonder that both he and his father Archie have defended the much-maligned Grossman these past few days. Manning has been in his shoes.
Manning finally beat his nemesis, the New England Patriots, several weeks ago to reach the promised land in Miami. It only took him nine years in the NFL. Manning is 30 years old.
Grossman has a long way to go, but at age 26, he has already achieved something that Manning could only dream of at the same age -- playing in the Super Bowl. Contrary to many naysayers, Grossman has won a Big Game -- the NFC title game over the Saints two weeks ago, which the Bears won 39-14.
Yes, the Bears QB played horribly in front of 93 million TV viewers. But being the eternal optimist that I am, my guess is that he will learn from this experience and become a better quarterback in the long run, even if it means meeting with a sports psychologist to get there.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
No Benching for Grossman
Bears' fans aren't happy unless they're discussing a quarterback controversy -- real or imagined. I'm probably in the minority when I say that Rex Grossman should not be benched after his dismal performance Sunday against the New England Patriots. What purpose does that serve? Grossman learns nothing by being benched, only that he'll need to look over his shoulder every now and then if he fumbles or throws an interception. Instead, coach Lovie Smith is putting trust in his quarterback, as is the offensive line. I think it's better to review the mistakes, correct them, then get back on the field for the next game. That's the only way young players will learn.
Understandably, fans are concerned about Grossman's ability to lead this team to a Superbowl victory. I'm not worried about the Superbowl; that's several months away. There are still four more games in the Bears' regular season, plenty of time to iron out whatever issues the team has. And really, this is a team problem, not just Grossman's. Lovie Smith is wise to admit that the entire team is at fault for Sunday's loss to the Patriots. He admitted that he made some bad play calls, and both the offense and defense had lapses.
Let's give some credit to the Patriots' defense (as well as other Bears' opponents) who have pressured Rex Grossman into forcing turnovers. They've looked at the game films and know that the young QB gets flustered under pressure, and they know he can be forced into making plays he shouldn't. It is up to the Bears' coaching staff to make adjustments so the offensive line can protect Grossman better and give him more time to make plays. When Grossman has time to throw downfield, the Bears can be electrifying to watch. But among Bear fans. Let's hope the former, and not the latter, is the team we see in the playoffs.
Understandably, fans are concerned about Grossman's ability to lead this team to a Superbowl victory. I'm not worried about the Superbowl; that's several months away. There are still four more games in the Bears' regular season, plenty of time to iron out whatever issues the team has. And really, this is a team problem, not just Grossman's. Lovie Smith is wise to admit that the entire team is at fault for Sunday's loss to the Patriots. He admitted that he made some bad play calls, and both the offense and defense had lapses.
Let's give some credit to the Patriots' defense (as well as other Bears' opponents) who have pressured Rex Grossman into forcing turnovers. They've looked at the game films and know that the young QB gets flustered under pressure, and they know he can be forced into making plays he shouldn't. It is up to the Bears' coaching staff to make adjustments so the offensive line can protect Grossman better and give him more time to make plays. When Grossman has time to throw downfield, the Bears can be electrifying to watch. But among Bear fans. Let's hope the former, and not the latter, is the team we see in the playoffs.
Monday, October 30, 2006
Bears’ House of Horrors
Two days before Halloween, the Chicago Bears showed once again why Soldier Field has become a “house of horrors” for opposing teams. The Bears crushed the hapless San Francisco 49ers 41-10 Sunday to remain unbeaten at 7-0. They scored all 41 of their points before half time, tying their team record for most points in one half. The game was essentially over within the first five minutes after the Bears drove down the field on their first possession for a field goal, then scored a quick touchdown after recovering a fumble on the ensuing kickoff.
Next week, the Miami Dolphins come to town and will most likely face a similar fate as the 49ers.
In four home games this season, the Bears' margins of victory have been 27, 31, 33 and 31 points. Quarterback Rex Grossman also seems to like playing on the home turf. He has completed close to 66 percent of his passes for 955 yards, 11 touchdowns and zero interceptions for a 124 passing rating. In three road games, he has thrown for only 684 yards, two TDs and seven interceptions for a 51.9 passer rating.
NFC teams better hope that the Bears do not get home field advantage during the playoffs. Imagine having to go to Soldier Field to play the Bears in January. No team will come out of the Bears “house of horrors” alive!
Next week, the Miami Dolphins come to town and will most likely face a similar fate as the 49ers.
In four home games this season, the Bears' margins of victory have been 27, 31, 33 and 31 points. Quarterback Rex Grossman also seems to like playing on the home turf. He has completed close to 66 percent of his passes for 955 yards, 11 touchdowns and zero interceptions for a 124 passing rating. In three road games, he has thrown for only 684 yards, two TDs and seven interceptions for a 51.9 passer rating.
NFC teams better hope that the Bears do not get home field advantage during the playoffs. Imagine having to go to Soldier Field to play the Bears in January. No team will come out of the Bears “house of horrors” alive!
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Will the Real Rookie QB Please Stand Up?
Bears QB Rex Grossman probably played the worst game of his professional life with four interceptions and two fumbles during Monday night's game against the Arizona Cardinals. People often forget that because of injuries, Grossman has played less than one year of professional football to date, so he is still prone to making rookie-type mistakes. He is neither as bad as he appeared last night nor as good as he has played in previous games. Grossman said it best in the Bears’ post-game press conference: “We’ve got a whole bye week to talk about how bad I played.”
Cardinals’ QB Matt Leinart, on the other hand, looked like he’s played in the NFL for years. This was only his second professional start, but you wouldn’t know it by the way he played. He threw for 194 years, two touchdowns and no interceptions. He has a poise and confidence far beyond his years. The Cardinals deserved a better fate perhaps, but as not-so-good teams do, they found a way to lose.
Cardinals’ QB Matt Leinart, on the other hand, looked like he’s played in the NFL for years. This was only his second professional start, but you wouldn’t know it by the way he played. He threw for 194 years, two touchdowns and no interceptions. He has a poise and confidence far beyond his years. The Cardinals deserved a better fate perhaps, but as not-so-good teams do, they found a way to lose.
Monday Night Miracle
I have a terrible confession to make.
After Bears’ QB Rex Grossman threw his fourth interception with about six minutes left in last night’s nationally-televised game against the Arizona Cardinals, I turned off the TV and went to bed. With the Bears down 23-10, I figured the game was over.
I was in bed only a few minutes when I heard a neighbor start yelling. But it was a yell of excitement, not pain. So I got up and checked on the Bears game – just in case. Bears’ rookie Devon Hester had just returned a punt for 83 yards to tie the score. With the ensuing extra point, the Bears were ahead 24-23 with less than three minutes remaining in the game. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Less then four minutes had elapsed on the game clock since I turned off the tube, and I’m thinking to myself, “How did this happen? These guys were dead to the world.”
Thanks to their highly-touted defense, the Bears scored two of their touchdowns courtesy of fumble recoveries. The third touchdown came on Hester’s punt return. Add a Bobbie Gould field goal, and the Bears scored 24 points without an offensive score. Once again, the Bears D and special teams bailed out the offense, as they always seem to do.
The Bears were so thoroughly outplayed last night that they did not deserve to win. But somehow they did. Miracle finishes like this happen to good teams. And when Cardinals' kicker Neil Rackers missed a 40-yard field goal attempt with 52 seconds left, when he had not missed a field goal of 50 yards or less all season, the Bears celebrated a most unlikely victory. At 6-0, they remain the only unbeaten team in the NFC.
After seeing a miracle finish like this, I had to wonder -- is it dumb luck or is it destiny? Maybe this is the Bears’ year after all.
After Bears’ QB Rex Grossman threw his fourth interception with about six minutes left in last night’s nationally-televised game against the Arizona Cardinals, I turned off the TV and went to bed. With the Bears down 23-10, I figured the game was over.
I was in bed only a few minutes when I heard a neighbor start yelling. But it was a yell of excitement, not pain. So I got up and checked on the Bears game – just in case. Bears’ rookie Devon Hester had just returned a punt for 83 yards to tie the score. With the ensuing extra point, the Bears were ahead 24-23 with less than three minutes remaining in the game. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Less then four minutes had elapsed on the game clock since I turned off the tube, and I’m thinking to myself, “How did this happen? These guys were dead to the world.”
Thanks to their highly-touted defense, the Bears scored two of their touchdowns courtesy of fumble recoveries. The third touchdown came on Hester’s punt return. Add a Bobbie Gould field goal, and the Bears scored 24 points without an offensive score. Once again, the Bears D and special teams bailed out the offense, as they always seem to do.
The Bears were so thoroughly outplayed last night that they did not deserve to win. But somehow they did. Miracle finishes like this happen to good teams. And when Cardinals' kicker Neil Rackers missed a 40-yard field goal attempt with 52 seconds left, when he had not missed a field goal of 50 yards or less all season, the Bears celebrated a most unlikely victory. At 6-0, they remain the only unbeaten team in the NFC.
After seeing a miracle finish like this, I had to wonder -- is it dumb luck or is it destiny? Maybe this is the Bears’ year after all.
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