Last Week's Record: 9-7
Cumulative Season Record: 28-20
________________________________________________________
49ers @ Falcons: FALCONS
Jets @ Bills: JETS
Bengals @ Browns: BENGALS
Lions @ Packers: PACKERS
Broncos @ Titans: TITANS
Seahawks @ Rams: SEAHAWKS
Panthers @ Saints: SAINTS
Ravens @ Steelers: RAVENS
Texans @ Raiders: TEXANS
Colts @ Jaguars: COLTS
Redskins @ Eagles: EAGLES
Cardinals @ Chargers: CHARGERS
SNF: Bears @ Giants: BEARS
MNF: Patriots @ Dolphins: DOLPHINS
___________________________________________________
SNF=Sunday Night Football
MNF=Monday Night Football
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Bears Week 3 Review (Packers 17--Bears 20)
The Story
Does the regular season get any better than the Bears and the Packers, the last two undefeated teams left in the NFC, going head-to-head on Monday Night Football in their NFL record 180th meeting?
Easy answer--no.
This game was more back and forth than a seesaw, but the Monsters of the Midway did what good teams do, they found a way to win. With so many back and forth plays, it was hard to tell who would come out on top until Robbie Gould nailed a 19 yard field goal with just four strikes left on the game clock to move the Bears to a 3-0 record and solidy their spot as the last undefeated team in the NFC.
The Bears played well enough to win in all phases, especially special teams. Devin Hester's 62 yard punt return for a touchdown near the start of the 4th gave Chicago a 14-10 lead and broke Hester's drought from December of 2007, the last time he had brought one back. Gould did miss a 49-yarder early in the contest but redeemed himself by nailing the chip shot to win it, of course a high pressure situation. And rounding it out was Julius Peppers who blocked a game-changing 37 yard field goal from Packers K Mason Crosby.
On offense, Jay Cutler had a game somewhere between mediocre and good, going 16-27 for 221 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, and a passer rating of 82.5. The run game still failed to show up, as Cutler found himself the leading rusher with 3 runs for 37 yards. Receiving, Knox did make 4 grabs for a team high 94 yards, but Olsen made 5 catches for 64 yards and the all important touchdown reception to cut Green Bay's lead to 3 and make it a 10-7 game just before the half.
If you don't want to give the game ball to special teams, then undoubtedly it goes to the defense. Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs each recorded a team-leading 9 tackles and the linebacking duo teamed up to deflect and intercept an Aaron Rodgers hail mary try to end the first half. And at the most critical point for Chicago's defense, Urlacher made a fantastic strip on Green Bay's James Jones to allow the offense to win the game. Tim Jennings, who also proved to be a contributor with 7 tackles, recovered that forced fumble. Also, Peppers forced the Pack's O-line to hold him multiple times in order to prevent sacks. With 2 turnovers on the night in a tough football game against a solid offense, the Bears' D made the stops when it came down to it.
On Green Bay's side, their offense had a productive day with 379 total yards, but costly penalties on both sides of the ball cost them this game. In being flagged 18 times for a ridiculous 152 yards, the Packers found themselves giving the game away, as two turnovers were erased by penalties and multiple holding calls backed up the offense. And with the Bears offense getting help from pass interference calls late in the game, Green Bay just made one too many sloppy mistakes to win this game.
Main Factor
The main factor in winning this game were the penalties and the resiliant play of the Bears' defense. Green Bay made too many mistakes on offense and defense via penalties, backing them up a total of 152 yards. When you have more penalties than points, you most likely will not win the football game.
Meanwhile, Chicago played "bend-but-not-break" defense; they gave up a lot of yards (379 total) but did not allow the Pack to score very much. Rodgers was able to march Green Bay up the field, but the nasty Chicago D stiffened up when necessary. And with the absence of Packers RB Ryan Grant, they made things easier on themselves by forcing Green Bay to be one-demensional, only allowing 63 rushing yards in the contest.
Strategy
With 1:44 remaining in regulation, Chicago had first and goal on Green Bay's 9 yard line in a 17-17 game. Green Bay had one timeout. Chicago elected to run the ball three consecutive times and then take a Robbie Gould field goal with just :04 remaining.
Should Packers head coach Mike McCarthy have purposely allowed the Bears to score in order to give his offense a chance to drive down the field and tie the game?
My answer is yes.
First of all, Bears head coach Lovie Smith should have had Cutler kneel on the ball three straight times. For any NFL kicker, there should be no noticeable difference between a 28 yard field goal and the one Gould nailed from 19 yards out--both should go in every time. So the extra 8 yards wouldn't have mattered for the 3rd most accurate kicker in NFL history. Why risk a Forte fumble and turnover when you have a very clutch, very accurate kicker waiting to nail it?
But considering the Bears didn't decide to sit on the ball, McCarthy should've let Chicago run it in for a score on first and goal. By not going that route, Chicago could take advantage of Green Bay's one timeout and milk just about every second off the clock (and that is exactly how it happened). With Gould as the kicker, McCarthy knew that the ball would go throught the uprights unless a miracle block occurs, which has proven to be a very rare feat in the NFL.
By allowing a Chicago touchdown, Green Bay gives themselves roughly 1:40 left with a timeout and the ball in Rodgers' hands. That is plenty of time to score, and the only logical route to go. And when a game gets to overtime, anything goes.
So forget all this mumbo jumbo about how intentionally allowing points is a bad example for the defense and how you need to take the stand no matter what. In the famous words of former head coach Herm Edwards, "you play to win the game!"
Who knows what would have happened had the Pack allowed Forte to run it in? But I will tell you this much, their chances of being 3-0 right now definitely improve if they would have given it a shot.
MVP
I'm going to be greedy and select two MVPs this week: Julius Peppers and Devin Hester. It's very simple--if Peppers doesn't create great pass rush, then Green Bay doesn't get charged for many of those costly holding penalties. And the blocked field goal changed the entire course of the rest of the game; If that kick isn't blocked, then we're never even looking at a 20-17 Bears lead to begin with.
Hester's punt return for a 62 yard touchdown shifted momentum back to Chicago and gave them the lead. Good players make it happen when it needs to happen, and that is why Hester gets my game ball (well, half of it anyway).
Looking Ahead to Next Week
Next week, on Sunday Night Football, the Bears will take on the New York Football Giants under the lights of New Meadowlands Stadium.
With Giants QB Eli Manning having thrown 6 interceptions in three games this season, expect a nasty Bears' pass rush to either break their sacking slump at two games or more turnovers by some bad throws. RB Ahmad Bradshaw has looked good through three, but considering the Bears have the #1 rated run defense in the league, expect hidden, mixed blitz coverages to limit Bradshaw. The Giants do have some other weapons on offense, but it can become quickly irrelevant if Chicago sets the tone early with nasty defensive packages.
For Chicago's offense, they need to continue mixing up Martz's gameplan. With protection, I would love to see more deep balls attempted downfield. But considering we're already going into Week 4, it's about time to get the ground game cranked up. With two talented backs in Forte and Chester Taylor, all it'll take is some commitment to the rush until some lanes are opened up. If the Bears can establish the ground early, then that will open up the field for more play-action passes, turning a whole new page in the Martz playbook.
Prediction: Bears 24--Giants 20
Does the regular season get any better than the Bears and the Packers, the last two undefeated teams left in the NFC, going head-to-head on Monday Night Football in their NFL record 180th meeting?
Easy answer--no.
This game was more back and forth than a seesaw, but the Monsters of the Midway did what good teams do, they found a way to win. With so many back and forth plays, it was hard to tell who would come out on top until Robbie Gould nailed a 19 yard field goal with just four strikes left on the game clock to move the Bears to a 3-0 record and solidy their spot as the last undefeated team in the NFC.
The Bears played well enough to win in all phases, especially special teams. Devin Hester's 62 yard punt return for a touchdown near the start of the 4th gave Chicago a 14-10 lead and broke Hester's drought from December of 2007, the last time he had brought one back. Gould did miss a 49-yarder early in the contest but redeemed himself by nailing the chip shot to win it, of course a high pressure situation. And rounding it out was Julius Peppers who blocked a game-changing 37 yard field goal from Packers K Mason Crosby.
On offense, Jay Cutler had a game somewhere between mediocre and good, going 16-27 for 221 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, and a passer rating of 82.5. The run game still failed to show up, as Cutler found himself the leading rusher with 3 runs for 37 yards. Receiving, Knox did make 4 grabs for a team high 94 yards, but Olsen made 5 catches for 64 yards and the all important touchdown reception to cut Green Bay's lead to 3 and make it a 10-7 game just before the half.
If you don't want to give the game ball to special teams, then undoubtedly it goes to the defense. Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs each recorded a team-leading 9 tackles and the linebacking duo teamed up to deflect and intercept an Aaron Rodgers hail mary try to end the first half. And at the most critical point for Chicago's defense, Urlacher made a fantastic strip on Green Bay's James Jones to allow the offense to win the game. Tim Jennings, who also proved to be a contributor with 7 tackles, recovered that forced fumble. Also, Peppers forced the Pack's O-line to hold him multiple times in order to prevent sacks. With 2 turnovers on the night in a tough football game against a solid offense, the Bears' D made the stops when it came down to it.
On Green Bay's side, their offense had a productive day with 379 total yards, but costly penalties on both sides of the ball cost them this game. In being flagged 18 times for a ridiculous 152 yards, the Packers found themselves giving the game away, as two turnovers were erased by penalties and multiple holding calls backed up the offense. And with the Bears offense getting help from pass interference calls late in the game, Green Bay just made one too many sloppy mistakes to win this game.
Main Factor
The main factor in winning this game were the penalties and the resiliant play of the Bears' defense. Green Bay made too many mistakes on offense and defense via penalties, backing them up a total of 152 yards. When you have more penalties than points, you most likely will not win the football game.
Meanwhile, Chicago played "bend-but-not-break" defense; they gave up a lot of yards (379 total) but did not allow the Pack to score very much. Rodgers was able to march Green Bay up the field, but the nasty Chicago D stiffened up when necessary. And with the absence of Packers RB Ryan Grant, they made things easier on themselves by forcing Green Bay to be one-demensional, only allowing 63 rushing yards in the contest.
Strategy
With 1:44 remaining in regulation, Chicago had first and goal on Green Bay's 9 yard line in a 17-17 game. Green Bay had one timeout. Chicago elected to run the ball three consecutive times and then take a Robbie Gould field goal with just :04 remaining.
Should Packers head coach Mike McCarthy have purposely allowed the Bears to score in order to give his offense a chance to drive down the field and tie the game?
My answer is yes.
First of all, Bears head coach Lovie Smith should have had Cutler kneel on the ball three straight times. For any NFL kicker, there should be no noticeable difference between a 28 yard field goal and the one Gould nailed from 19 yards out--both should go in every time. So the extra 8 yards wouldn't have mattered for the 3rd most accurate kicker in NFL history. Why risk a Forte fumble and turnover when you have a very clutch, very accurate kicker waiting to nail it?
But considering the Bears didn't decide to sit on the ball, McCarthy should've let Chicago run it in for a score on first and goal. By not going that route, Chicago could take advantage of Green Bay's one timeout and milk just about every second off the clock (and that is exactly how it happened). With Gould as the kicker, McCarthy knew that the ball would go throught the uprights unless a miracle block occurs, which has proven to be a very rare feat in the NFL.
By allowing a Chicago touchdown, Green Bay gives themselves roughly 1:40 left with a timeout and the ball in Rodgers' hands. That is plenty of time to score, and the only logical route to go. And when a game gets to overtime, anything goes.
So forget all this mumbo jumbo about how intentionally allowing points is a bad example for the defense and how you need to take the stand no matter what. In the famous words of former head coach Herm Edwards, "you play to win the game!"
Who knows what would have happened had the Pack allowed Forte to run it in? But I will tell you this much, their chances of being 3-0 right now definitely improve if they would have given it a shot.
MVP
I'm going to be greedy and select two MVPs this week: Julius Peppers and Devin Hester. It's very simple--if Peppers doesn't create great pass rush, then Green Bay doesn't get charged for many of those costly holding penalties. And the blocked field goal changed the entire course of the rest of the game; If that kick isn't blocked, then we're never even looking at a 20-17 Bears lead to begin with.
Hester's punt return for a 62 yard touchdown shifted momentum back to Chicago and gave them the lead. Good players make it happen when it needs to happen, and that is why Hester gets my game ball (well, half of it anyway).
Looking Ahead to Next Week
Next week, on Sunday Night Football, the Bears will take on the New York Football Giants under the lights of New Meadowlands Stadium.
With Giants QB Eli Manning having thrown 6 interceptions in three games this season, expect a nasty Bears' pass rush to either break their sacking slump at two games or more turnovers by some bad throws. RB Ahmad Bradshaw has looked good through three, but considering the Bears have the #1 rated run defense in the league, expect hidden, mixed blitz coverages to limit Bradshaw. The Giants do have some other weapons on offense, but it can become quickly irrelevant if Chicago sets the tone early with nasty defensive packages.
For Chicago's offense, they need to continue mixing up Martz's gameplan. With protection, I would love to see more deep balls attempted downfield. But considering we're already going into Week 4, it's about time to get the ground game cranked up. With two talented backs in Forte and Chester Taylor, all it'll take is some commitment to the rush until some lanes are opened up. If the Bears can establish the ground early, then that will open up the field for more play-action passes, turning a whole new page in the Martz playbook.
Prediction: Bears 24--Giants 20
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
NFL Predictions: Week 3
Last Week's Record: 10-6
Cumulative Season Record: 19-13
__________________________________________________
49ers @ Chiefs: 49ERS
Lions @ Vikings: VIKINGS
Bills @ Patriots: PATRIOTS
Falcons @ Saints: SAINTS
Titans @ Giants: GIANTS
Steelers @ Buccaneers: STEELERS
Bengals @ Panthers: BENGALS
Browns @ Ravens: RAVENS
Cowboys @ Texans: TEXANS
Redskins @ Rams: REDSKINS
Eagles @ Jaguars: EAGLES
Colts @ Broncos: COLTS
Raiders @ Cardinals: CARDINALS
Chargers @ Seahawks: CHARGERS
SNF: Jets @ Dolphins: DOLPHINS
MNF: Packers @ Bears: BEARS
__________________________________________________
SNF=Sunday Night Football
MNF=Monday Night Football
Cumulative Season Record: 19-13
__________________________________________________
49ers @ Chiefs: 49ERS
Lions @ Vikings: VIKINGS
Bills @ Patriots: PATRIOTS
Falcons @ Saints: SAINTS
Titans @ Giants: GIANTS
Steelers @ Buccaneers: STEELERS
Bengals @ Panthers: BENGALS
Browns @ Ravens: RAVENS
Cowboys @ Texans: TEXANS
Redskins @ Rams: REDSKINS
Eagles @ Jaguars: EAGLES
Colts @ Broncos: COLTS
Raiders @ Cardinals: CARDINALS
Chargers @ Seahawks: CHARGERS
SNF: Jets @ Dolphins: DOLPHINS
MNF: Packers @ Bears: BEARS
__________________________________________________
SNF=Sunday Night Football
MNF=Monday Night Football
Monday, September 20, 2010
Bears Week 2 Review (Bears 27--Cowboys 20)
Dallas wins. Chicago loses. The hostile crowd was too much for Jay Cutler and the Bears offense. That nasty Dallas defense led by linebackers DeMarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer was just too much for an inexperienced Chicago receiving core--but that's just what most people assumed they would be watching on Sunday afternoon.
But the more football you watch, the more you learn that anything can happen...on any given Sunday.
The Bears played into that football catchphrase yesterday by playing solid in all 3 phases of the game. In fact, even the 4th phase stepped up, as Bears fans that drove down to Texas could be heard and at times even outscreamed the Dallas faithful of over 100,000 strong in that new Cowboys Stadium. As a Bears fan, yesterday's game was not what I expected, but everything I had hoped for.
Chicago hadn't last won in Dallas since 1986. The Monsters of the Midway hadn't started a season 2-0 since they last reached the Super Bowl in 2006. Dallas had lost a painful one to Washington the week before, and were looking to be boosted back to health by way of beating up on a Bears team that nobody expected to go anywhere at all this season. Well, Chicago hasn't gone anywhere yet, but they are quickly erasing reasons to doubt.
In beating Dallas 27-20 on Sunday, Cutler passed for 277 yards with 3 TDs, no pics, and a QB rating of 136.7. WR Devin Hester, who was criticised by the media last week for only making one reception versus Detroit, caught 4 balls for 77 yards and a one handed mid-air touchdown snab that made SportsCenters' Top Ten Plays list. RB Matt Forte and TE Greg Olsen also chipped in a touchdown each and a combined 78 yards receiving. And rounding out the offense was WR Johnny Knox who caught 4 passes worth 86 big ones, including a 59 yard bomb from Cutler that peacefully floated right into Knox's arms.
The way the first two offensive drives went, a fair prediction would have been that Cutler was going to end up in a full body cast and breathing tube. If Cutler wasn't running for his life on every play, then I must've not been watching the right game, 'cause that's sure what it looked like. But everything changed when LT Chris Williams was found being examined by medical personnel. As a replacement, Chicago sent in Kevin Shaffer to play left tackle in place of Williams, who was done for the game, but Shaffer struggled. For this reason, they gave the left tackle spot to Frank Omiyale and then moved Shaffer to right, who was much more comfortable there in his natural position.
I thought Omiyale played one heck of a game; one of the hardest aspects to football is adjusting, and Omiyale seemed to be a master of it after relieving Shaffer. In fact, adjustments proved to be a major headline to this matchup, as O-line Coach Mike Tice had to quickly calm his line and make the necessary changes before any more damage was done in later series'.
Beyond that, Cutler and Offensive Coordinator Mike Martz discovered a new game plan that worked better than the one they initially drew up. Implementing this after realizing the poor protection by the offensive line, Martz had Cutler rely more on quick screens and slants rather than elaborate, drawn out pass plays that required time in the pocket. And whenever they did mix in deep routes, TEs Brandon Manumaleuna and Olsen were kind enough to team up and create a good double tight end set to help make double teams on Dallas's d-line and prevent blitzes.
Forte and Chester Taylor helped with a combined 46 receiving yards, but they only ran for 29 and 6 yards, respectively. So despite the passing game impressing me more and more each week, Chicago's run game continues to fail; other teams will eventually classify Chicago as being a one-demensional offense and thus force the Bears to excercise their backfield, which will be a problem unless they get used to a run game soon.
But besides individual performances, the offense as a whole cooperated well. They adjusted to everything Dallas did, didn't turn the ball over, and they found ways to prevent Dallas from getting a good read on their game plan by switching up their play, most notably speaking of deep passes when Cutler read single man coverage downfield.
As for the 2nd phase, I thought the Bears defense was more amazing than Cutler's squad in some ways. CB Zack Bowman recorded a team high 10 tackles and Tillman made 8 of his own with a forced fumble incuded. But considering the Cowboys were lead by Tony Romo, I think it's most fair to give the defensive game ball to CB D.J. Moore, who picked off Romo twice in this contest to record his first and second career interceptions, both times leading to Chicago scores. And overall, the Bears D allowed only 36 yards rushing on the day and snabbed three takeaways. A very impressive performance indeed.
But because it's not realistic nor reasonable to smile all the time, I must point out the negatives I saw on Sunday. For the defense, despite the three takeaways, there were no sacks. Not that I expect Julius Peppers to flatten the quarterback every game, but I would've liked to see some mixups in the blitzing schemes that could result in either multiple sacks or constant pressure that would've made Romo not be able to let his receivers complete their respective routes.
On the offensive side, besides the early play of the line, Chicago needs much better third down execution. Going 1-11, as they did on Sunday, was unacceptable. Considering fourth downs are meant for punts, if you can't convert on third, then you just limited yourself to having two plays to get a new first (which normally won't be done).
But excluding the fact that Williams and Major Wright were taken out of the game for injuries, the day looked very positive in Chicago.
A 2-0 start is always good, and it feels even better when you're one of only 7 teams in the league that can claim one. But next week, on Monday Night Football, undefeated seasons are on the line for both teams as Chicago takes the field in a grueling matchup with Green Bay under the lights of Soldier Field.
But the more football you watch, the more you learn that anything can happen...on any given Sunday.
The Bears played into that football catchphrase yesterday by playing solid in all 3 phases of the game. In fact, even the 4th phase stepped up, as Bears fans that drove down to Texas could be heard and at times even outscreamed the Dallas faithful of over 100,000 strong in that new Cowboys Stadium. As a Bears fan, yesterday's game was not what I expected, but everything I had hoped for.
Chicago hadn't last won in Dallas since 1986. The Monsters of the Midway hadn't started a season 2-0 since they last reached the Super Bowl in 2006. Dallas had lost a painful one to Washington the week before, and were looking to be boosted back to health by way of beating up on a Bears team that nobody expected to go anywhere at all this season. Well, Chicago hasn't gone anywhere yet, but they are quickly erasing reasons to doubt.
In beating Dallas 27-20 on Sunday, Cutler passed for 277 yards with 3 TDs, no pics, and a QB rating of 136.7. WR Devin Hester, who was criticised by the media last week for only making one reception versus Detroit, caught 4 balls for 77 yards and a one handed mid-air touchdown snab that made SportsCenters' Top Ten Plays list. RB Matt Forte and TE Greg Olsen also chipped in a touchdown each and a combined 78 yards receiving. And rounding out the offense was WR Johnny Knox who caught 4 passes worth 86 big ones, including a 59 yard bomb from Cutler that peacefully floated right into Knox's arms.
The way the first two offensive drives went, a fair prediction would have been that Cutler was going to end up in a full body cast and breathing tube. If Cutler wasn't running for his life on every play, then I must've not been watching the right game, 'cause that's sure what it looked like. But everything changed when LT Chris Williams was found being examined by medical personnel. As a replacement, Chicago sent in Kevin Shaffer to play left tackle in place of Williams, who was done for the game, but Shaffer struggled. For this reason, they gave the left tackle spot to Frank Omiyale and then moved Shaffer to right, who was much more comfortable there in his natural position.
I thought Omiyale played one heck of a game; one of the hardest aspects to football is adjusting, and Omiyale seemed to be a master of it after relieving Shaffer. In fact, adjustments proved to be a major headline to this matchup, as O-line Coach Mike Tice had to quickly calm his line and make the necessary changes before any more damage was done in later series'.
Beyond that, Cutler and Offensive Coordinator Mike Martz discovered a new game plan that worked better than the one they initially drew up. Implementing this after realizing the poor protection by the offensive line, Martz had Cutler rely more on quick screens and slants rather than elaborate, drawn out pass plays that required time in the pocket. And whenever they did mix in deep routes, TEs Brandon Manumaleuna and Olsen were kind enough to team up and create a good double tight end set to help make double teams on Dallas's d-line and prevent blitzes.
Forte and Chester Taylor helped with a combined 46 receiving yards, but they only ran for 29 and 6 yards, respectively. So despite the passing game impressing me more and more each week, Chicago's run game continues to fail; other teams will eventually classify Chicago as being a one-demensional offense and thus force the Bears to excercise their backfield, which will be a problem unless they get used to a run game soon.
But besides individual performances, the offense as a whole cooperated well. They adjusted to everything Dallas did, didn't turn the ball over, and they found ways to prevent Dallas from getting a good read on their game plan by switching up their play, most notably speaking of deep passes when Cutler read single man coverage downfield.
As for the 2nd phase, I thought the Bears defense was more amazing than Cutler's squad in some ways. CB Zack Bowman recorded a team high 10 tackles and Tillman made 8 of his own with a forced fumble incuded. But considering the Cowboys were lead by Tony Romo, I think it's most fair to give the defensive game ball to CB D.J. Moore, who picked off Romo twice in this contest to record his first and second career interceptions, both times leading to Chicago scores. And overall, the Bears D allowed only 36 yards rushing on the day and snabbed three takeaways. A very impressive performance indeed.
But because it's not realistic nor reasonable to smile all the time, I must point out the negatives I saw on Sunday. For the defense, despite the three takeaways, there were no sacks. Not that I expect Julius Peppers to flatten the quarterback every game, but I would've liked to see some mixups in the blitzing schemes that could result in either multiple sacks or constant pressure that would've made Romo not be able to let his receivers complete their respective routes.
On the offensive side, besides the early play of the line, Chicago needs much better third down execution. Going 1-11, as they did on Sunday, was unacceptable. Considering fourth downs are meant for punts, if you can't convert on third, then you just limited yourself to having two plays to get a new first (which normally won't be done).
But excluding the fact that Williams and Major Wright were taken out of the game for injuries, the day looked very positive in Chicago.
A 2-0 start is always good, and it feels even better when you're one of only 7 teams in the league that can claim one. But next week, on Monday Night Football, undefeated seasons are on the line for both teams as Chicago takes the field in a grueling matchup with Green Bay under the lights of Soldier Field.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
NFL Predictions: Week 2
Last Week's Record: 9-7
Cumulative Season Record: 9-7
____________________________________________________________
Cardinals @ Falcons: FALCONS
Ravens @ Bengals: RAVENS
Chiefs @ Browns: CHIEFS
Bears @ Cowboys: COWBOYS
Eagles @ Lions: EAGLES
Bills @ Packers: PACKERS
Steelers @ Titans: TITANS
Dolphins @ Vikings: VIKINGS
Buccaneers @ Panthers: PANTHERS
Seahawks @ Broncos: BRONCOS
Rams @ Raiders: RAIDERS
Patriots @ Jets: PATRIOTS
Jaguars @ Chargers: CHARGERS
Texans @ Redskins: TEXANS
SNF: Giants @ Colts: COLTS
MNF: Saints @ 49ers: SAINTS
______________________________________________________________
SNF=Sunday Night Football
MNF=Monday Night Football
Cumulative Season Record: 9-7
____________________________________________________________
Cardinals @ Falcons: FALCONS
Ravens @ Bengals: RAVENS
Chiefs @ Browns: CHIEFS
Bears @ Cowboys: COWBOYS
Eagles @ Lions: EAGLES
Bills @ Packers: PACKERS
Steelers @ Titans: TITANS
Dolphins @ Vikings: VIKINGS
Buccaneers @ Panthers: PANTHERS
Seahawks @ Broncos: BRONCOS
Rams @ Raiders: RAIDERS
Patriots @ Jets: PATRIOTS
Jaguars @ Chargers: CHARGERS
Texans @ Redskins: TEXANS
SNF: Giants @ Colts: COLTS
MNF: Saints @ 49ers: SAINTS
______________________________________________________________
SNF=Sunday Night Football
MNF=Monday Night Football
Monday, September 13, 2010
Bears Week 1 Review (Lions 14--Bears 19)
Of the 32 teams in the National Football League, there is not a big list that would lose to the Detroit Lions, especially Week 1 in front of their own pride. The Bears, whilst scraping out a desperation 19-14 win Sunday afternoon, avoided being added to that list.
If you have been anywhere near Chicago in the past 24 hours, you've most likely heard about the controversial call that overtook the NFL's Sunday spotlight within minutes of occuring. With just :24 left to play in the game, Lions' backup QB Shaun Hill nailed WR Calvin Johnson in the endzone for the apparent go-ahead score that would've put Detroit up 20-19 and just about wrapped up the game, barring a Windy City miracle. However, after video review, the officials determined it to be an incomplete pass, for Johnson failed to hold onto the ball after his right hand hit the ground.
Considering this one play seems to be the main and only attraction to discussing this regular season opener, I feel discussing this play before anything else is the logical thing to do.
Everyone except the NFL Officials' office seems intent on believing that this play should have resulted in a score--even Bears' fans are claiming that their team rightfully lost. And I too was convinced it was the wrong call until I saw it for close to the 15th time. But I later determined (and attempted to be entirely objective in the process) that the only reason most fans, as educated on the topic as they may be, believe it was a touchdown was because it looked like a touchdown. But as we've all heard before, things aren't always as they appear to be.
It appeared to be six points right up until Johnson's right hand reached for the ground. Catching the ball: check. Feet down in bounds: check. Maintaining complete possession of the ball throughout the entire catch: ...not check.
The most common reason I've been hearing as to why it is a touchdown is that Johnson caught the ball and got his feet down in the endzone. Although those are essential parts of making an NFL touchdown reception, that is not the total package of requirements. Johnson needed to maintain possession of the ball throughout the entire catch; this is something he failed to do. When watching the replay multiple times, it becomes more and more clear each time that, as Johnson's right hand hit the grass, the ball squeezes out. If you don't believe me, consult Rule 8, Section 1, Article 4 of the official NFL Rulebook for a detailed and thorough explanation.
And about a minute before Johnson's incomplete catch, when Forte made his 28-yard TD snab in the left corner of the endzone, the goal line official didn't call the play a touchdown until he clearly saw Forte roll back over to reveal that the ball was infact still within his grip, proving that he had maintained complete possession throughout the entire process of the catch.
As a last note to this play, I think it ridiculous that, in an effort to defend their belief on this play rightfully being a touchdown, some say that this was actually a fumble. Number one: it wasn't a fumble if the receiver never had complete control (in that case it's simply incomplete). And number two: the whole point of claiming it to be a fumble would be to say that Johnson fumbled after he scored the touchdown. If you didn't know, it's impossible and illogical to get a touchdown and fumble on the same play.
But now that we've covered the Johnson play, I'd like to take a moment to discuss the Bears and their performance in their 2010 regular season matinee.
To begin with the offense, I thought Jay Cutler had a great game, going 23-35 for 372 yards with 2 TDs and 1 INT for a passer rating of 108.3. Besides the fumble, I thought the only other play that needs correcting was his interception, which he threw into triple coverage and got picked off by Lions' CB Aaron Berry after being tipped around. This play was simply a bad decision--an unfortunate reminder of many Cutler throws in his debut season in a Bears' uniform.
I also liked the play of the receivers, especially Devin Aromashodu and Johnny Knox, who caught 5 and 3 passes for 71 and 52 yards, respectively. Bears RB Chester Taylor also chipped in 44 yards coming out of the backfield.
But the most important offensive piece to this victory was RB Matt Forte. Although he only ran for 50 yards on 17 carries for an average of 2.9 YPC, he was sensational through the air, catching 7 passes for 151 yards and 2 TDs, including an 89-yard catch and run screen pass from Cutler. And to add to his day, it was the timing that struck me the most. With less than two minutes remaining in the first half and the Bears trailing 14-3, Forte bursted through the Detroit secondary to change the entire complexion of the game by not only closing the gap but also providing a huge momentum burst going into the locker room.
On the defensive side of the ball, there were many questions heading into the season. But overall I thought the defense performed exceptionally well. With Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs and Bears newbie Julius Peppers leading the way, Chicago managed 2 sacks, 6 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, 1 interception and 5 quarterback hits. And although allowing Lions tailback Jahvid Best two touchdowns on the ground, Chicago held Detroit to just 20 rushing yards on the day.
Despite the offense and defense providing somewhat lengthy highlight reels, there are still a few problems with what I saw from Chicago on Sunday. The offensive line allowed the Detroit D to get to Cutler 4 times, which is simply too many. Also, the offense and coaching staff need to produce where it counts; the Bears failed to get 1 yard on four plays to get the go ahead score. And finally, Chicago turned the ball over 4 times, which, even against lowly-Detroit, is a recipe for disaster. If you told me that the Bears would have 4 giveaways every game, I'd expect to see a 1-15 season. And, to add insult to injury, it seemed as though every Bears turnover came at the worst possible time.
Like the other 15 games that are showcased in Week 1, there are positive and negative things to take away. But what counts is the corrections that the Bears will make throughout this week and heading into Dallas for a Week 2 matchup with America's Team.
If you have been anywhere near Chicago in the past 24 hours, you've most likely heard about the controversial call that overtook the NFL's Sunday spotlight within minutes of occuring. With just :24 left to play in the game, Lions' backup QB Shaun Hill nailed WR Calvin Johnson in the endzone for the apparent go-ahead score that would've put Detroit up 20-19 and just about wrapped up the game, barring a Windy City miracle. However, after video review, the officials determined it to be an incomplete pass, for Johnson failed to hold onto the ball after his right hand hit the ground.
Considering this one play seems to be the main and only attraction to discussing this regular season opener, I feel discussing this play before anything else is the logical thing to do.
Everyone except the NFL Officials' office seems intent on believing that this play should have resulted in a score--even Bears' fans are claiming that their team rightfully lost. And I too was convinced it was the wrong call until I saw it for close to the 15th time. But I later determined (and attempted to be entirely objective in the process) that the only reason most fans, as educated on the topic as they may be, believe it was a touchdown was because it looked like a touchdown. But as we've all heard before, things aren't always as they appear to be.
It appeared to be six points right up until Johnson's right hand reached for the ground. Catching the ball: check. Feet down in bounds: check. Maintaining complete possession of the ball throughout the entire catch: ...not check.
The most common reason I've been hearing as to why it is a touchdown is that Johnson caught the ball and got his feet down in the endzone. Although those are essential parts of making an NFL touchdown reception, that is not the total package of requirements. Johnson needed to maintain possession of the ball throughout the entire catch; this is something he failed to do. When watching the replay multiple times, it becomes more and more clear each time that, as Johnson's right hand hit the grass, the ball squeezes out. If you don't believe me, consult Rule 8, Section 1, Article 4 of the official NFL Rulebook for a detailed and thorough explanation.
And about a minute before Johnson's incomplete catch, when Forte made his 28-yard TD snab in the left corner of the endzone, the goal line official didn't call the play a touchdown until he clearly saw Forte roll back over to reveal that the ball was infact still within his grip, proving that he had maintained complete possession throughout the entire process of the catch.
As a last note to this play, I think it ridiculous that, in an effort to defend their belief on this play rightfully being a touchdown, some say that this was actually a fumble. Number one: it wasn't a fumble if the receiver never had complete control (in that case it's simply incomplete). And number two: the whole point of claiming it to be a fumble would be to say that Johnson fumbled after he scored the touchdown. If you didn't know, it's impossible and illogical to get a touchdown and fumble on the same play.
But now that we've covered the Johnson play, I'd like to take a moment to discuss the Bears and their performance in their 2010 regular season matinee.
To begin with the offense, I thought Jay Cutler had a great game, going 23-35 for 372 yards with 2 TDs and 1 INT for a passer rating of 108.3. Besides the fumble, I thought the only other play that needs correcting was his interception, which he threw into triple coverage and got picked off by Lions' CB Aaron Berry after being tipped around. This play was simply a bad decision--an unfortunate reminder of many Cutler throws in his debut season in a Bears' uniform.
I also liked the play of the receivers, especially Devin Aromashodu and Johnny Knox, who caught 5 and 3 passes for 71 and 52 yards, respectively. Bears RB Chester Taylor also chipped in 44 yards coming out of the backfield.
But the most important offensive piece to this victory was RB Matt Forte. Although he only ran for 50 yards on 17 carries for an average of 2.9 YPC, he was sensational through the air, catching 7 passes for 151 yards and 2 TDs, including an 89-yard catch and run screen pass from Cutler. And to add to his day, it was the timing that struck me the most. With less than two minutes remaining in the first half and the Bears trailing 14-3, Forte bursted through the Detroit secondary to change the entire complexion of the game by not only closing the gap but also providing a huge momentum burst going into the locker room.
On the defensive side of the ball, there were many questions heading into the season. But overall I thought the defense performed exceptionally well. With Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs and Bears newbie Julius Peppers leading the way, Chicago managed 2 sacks, 6 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, 1 interception and 5 quarterback hits. And although allowing Lions tailback Jahvid Best two touchdowns on the ground, Chicago held Detroit to just 20 rushing yards on the day.
Despite the offense and defense providing somewhat lengthy highlight reels, there are still a few problems with what I saw from Chicago on Sunday. The offensive line allowed the Detroit D to get to Cutler 4 times, which is simply too many. Also, the offense and coaching staff need to produce where it counts; the Bears failed to get 1 yard on four plays to get the go ahead score. And finally, Chicago turned the ball over 4 times, which, even against lowly-Detroit, is a recipe for disaster. If you told me that the Bears would have 4 giveaways every game, I'd expect to see a 1-15 season. And, to add insult to injury, it seemed as though every Bears turnover came at the worst possible time.
Like the other 15 games that are showcased in Week 1, there are positive and negative things to take away. But what counts is the corrections that the Bears will make throughout this week and heading into Dallas for a Week 2 matchup with America's Team.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
NFL Predictions: Season Records, Playoffs, and Superbowl
**Playoff team
NFC East:
**Dallas: 11-5 (11-5 last year)
N.Y. Giants: 9-7 (8-8 last year)
Philadelphia: 7-9 (11-5 last year)
Washington: 6-10 (4-12 last year)
NFC West:
**San Francisco: 11-5 (8-8 last year)
Seattle: 8-8 (5-11 last year)
Arizona: 7-9 (10-6 last year)
St. Louis: 3-13 (1-15 last year)
NFC North:
**Green Bay: 12-4 (11-5 last year)
**Minnesota: 11-5 (12-4 last year)
Chicago: 8-8 (7-9 last year)
Detroit: 4-12 (2-14 last year)
NFC South:
**New Orleans: 12-4 (13-3 last year)
**Atlanta: 10-6 (9-7 last year)
Carolina: 5-11 (8-8 last year)
Tampa Bay: 4-12 (3-13 last year)
AFC East:
**N.Y. Jets: 11-5 (9-7 last year)
**Miami: 10-6 (7-9 last year)
New England: 9-7 (10-6 last year)
Buffalo: 5-11 (6-10 last year)
AFC West:
**San Diego: 12-4 (13-3 last year)
Denver: 6-10 (8-8 last year)
Kansas City: 5-11 (4-12 last year)
Oakland: 3-13 (5-11 last year)
AFC North:
**Baltimore: 11-5 (9-7 last year)
Cincinnati: 9-7 (10-6 last year)
Pittsburgh: 7-9 (9-7 last year)
Cleveland: 5-11 (5-11 last year)
AFC South:
**Indianapolis: 13-3 (14-2 last year)
**Houston: 10-6 (9-7 last year)
Tennessee: 7-9 (8-8 last year)
Jacksonville: 5-11 (7-9 last year)
NFC PLAYOFFS
Wild Card: Atlanta 30
San Francisco 17
Minnesota 24
Dallas 33
Divisional: Atlanta 17
Green Bay 34
Dallas 24
New Orleans 23
NFC Championship: Dallas 30
Green Bay 23
AFC PLAYOFFS
Wild Card: Miami 17
Houston 33
N.Y. Jets 23
Baltimore 20
Divisional: Houston 23
San Diego 33
N.Y. Jets 17
Indianapolis 30
AFC Championship: San Diego 24
Indianapolis 30
SUPER BOWL XLV: Indianapolis 24
Dallas 28
Super Bowl XLV Champion: DALLAS COWBOYS
NFC East:
**Dallas: 11-5 (11-5 last year)
N.Y. Giants: 9-7 (8-8 last year)
Philadelphia: 7-9 (11-5 last year)
Washington: 6-10 (4-12 last year)
NFC West:
**San Francisco: 11-5 (8-8 last year)
Seattle: 8-8 (5-11 last year)
Arizona: 7-9 (10-6 last year)
St. Louis: 3-13 (1-15 last year)
NFC North:
**Green Bay: 12-4 (11-5 last year)
**Minnesota: 11-5 (12-4 last year)
Chicago: 8-8 (7-9 last year)
Detroit: 4-12 (2-14 last year)
NFC South:
**New Orleans: 12-4 (13-3 last year)
**Atlanta: 10-6 (9-7 last year)
Carolina: 5-11 (8-8 last year)
Tampa Bay: 4-12 (3-13 last year)
AFC East:
**N.Y. Jets: 11-5 (9-7 last year)
**Miami: 10-6 (7-9 last year)
New England: 9-7 (10-6 last year)
Buffalo: 5-11 (6-10 last year)
AFC West:
**San Diego: 12-4 (13-3 last year)
Denver: 6-10 (8-8 last year)
Kansas City: 5-11 (4-12 last year)
Oakland: 3-13 (5-11 last year)
AFC North:
**Baltimore: 11-5 (9-7 last year)
Cincinnati: 9-7 (10-6 last year)
Pittsburgh: 7-9 (9-7 last year)
Cleveland: 5-11 (5-11 last year)
AFC South:
**Indianapolis: 13-3 (14-2 last year)
**Houston: 10-6 (9-7 last year)
Tennessee: 7-9 (8-8 last year)
Jacksonville: 5-11 (7-9 last year)
NFC PLAYOFFS
Wild Card: Atlanta 30
San Francisco 17
Minnesota 24
Dallas 33
Divisional: Atlanta 17
Green Bay 34
Dallas 24
New Orleans 23
NFC Championship: Dallas 30
Green Bay 23
AFC PLAYOFFS
Wild Card: Miami 17
Houston 33
N.Y. Jets 23
Baltimore 20
Divisional: Houston 23
San Diego 33
N.Y. Jets 17
Indianapolis 30
AFC Championship: San Diego 24
Indianapolis 30
SUPER BOWL XLV: Indianapolis 24
Dallas 28
Super Bowl XLV Champion: DALLAS COWBOYS
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
NFL Predictions: Week 1
TNF: Vikings @ Saints: SAINTS
Lions @ Bears: BEARS
Broncos @ Jaguars: JAGUARS
Colts @ Texans: COLTS
Dolphins @ Bills: DOLPHINS
Raiders @ Titans: TITANS
Bengals @ Patriots: PATRIOTS
Panthers @ Giants: GIANTS
Browns @ Buccaneers: BROWNS
Falcons @ Steelers: FALCONS
Cardinals @ Rams: CARDINALS
Packers @ Eagles: PACKERS
49ers @ Seahawks: 49ERS
SNF: Cowboys @ Redskins: COWBOYS
MNF: Ravens @ Jets: JETS
MNF: Chargers @ Chiefs: CHARGERS
__________________________________________________________________________
*TNF=Thursday Night Football
*SNF=Sunday Night Football
*MNF=Monday Night Football
**NOTE** I will post my prediction records from both the previous week and my cumulative season record on each new weekly entry (obviously Week 1 is the only exception).
Lions @ Bears: BEARS
Broncos @ Jaguars: JAGUARS
Colts @ Texans: COLTS
Dolphins @ Bills: DOLPHINS
Raiders @ Titans: TITANS
Bengals @ Patriots: PATRIOTS
Panthers @ Giants: GIANTS
Browns @ Buccaneers: BROWNS
Falcons @ Steelers: FALCONS
Cardinals @ Rams: CARDINALS
Packers @ Eagles: PACKERS
49ers @ Seahawks: 49ERS
SNF: Cowboys @ Redskins: COWBOYS
MNF: Ravens @ Jets: JETS
MNF: Chargers @ Chiefs: CHARGERS
__________________________________________________________________________
*TNF=Thursday Night Football
*SNF=Sunday Night Football
*MNF=Monday Night Football
**NOTE** I will post my prediction records from both the previous week and my cumulative season record on each new weekly entry (obviously Week 1 is the only exception).
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Bears Preseason Wrap Up: What Did We Learn?
Chicago's favorite Bears found themselves on the losing end of their first preseason game of the season. The unfortunate anecdote is that similar scores could be seen in their following three games to end the "glorified practices". Nobody likes making infamous history, but the Bears did just that yesterday, finishing the 2010 preseason without a win for the first time since 1998. You can say 0-4 all you want, but come September 12th the National Football League will let Chicago start fresh again at a clean 0-0 record when 'Da Bears' take the field against Detroit to begin a grueling campaign that is the 2010 Bears schedule.
If you care to look at history, consider that the 1985 Monsters of the Midway were 0-3 in the preseason before salvaging a win. Or maybe that just two years ago, before the Lions made history by being the first NFL team without a win in a 16 game season, they dominated preseason play with a 4-0 record. And if you enjoy the present even more, how about the fact that Indy just finished going 0-4 as well to begin this year? But whether I see four wins or four losses, I don't get caught up in preseasonal record. If you believe that wins and losses are the important thing, then you might as well go to Bears training camp in Bourbonnais and try to keep score between Jay Cutler and Julius Peppers.
My number one concern with preseason football is injuries; as long as every player in a blue and orange jersey jogs off the field after every series without grimacing, the other meaningless details are just dandy with me. Well, I wish it was that simple. But while trying to keep everyone healthy, it is still important to see improvements and make corrections.
In watching all four games, though, I saw an 0-4 record and multiple injuries, some pertaining to starters and some benchwarmers. But this doesn't make the preseason a disaster. In fact, I wouldn't even say this preseason was a failure.
The media has blown these losses into such a big deal that it looks as though some of those writers expect the armageddon as soon as Jay Cutler throws his first pass against the Detroit defense. Although none of the four games were particularly impressive performances, there are nevertheless positive things to take away from them.
In paying attention to individual performances, I saw multiple players that showed impressive skill and development--most notably those that make up the receiving core.
Devin Aromashodu proved to be worthy of playing time late last year in being a great third man off the bench. He looks to continue from right where he ended, as he's caught 7 passes for 104 yards and a touchdown in this year's preseason. He hasn't had many opportunities, but when he does he seems to always take full advantage. Although it doesn't help that new offensive coordinator Mike Martz has implemented a very complicated offensive system, it'll provide this very young core new opportunities that may spark success; if the Bears can concoct some imagination when given the football, that could lead to these speedy receivers making big plays for Cutler and the offense.
Johnny Knox, Devin Hester, Rashied Davis, and Juaquin Iglesius also look good. Knox leads Bears receivers with 7 catches for 135 yards and a touchdown. Davis had an standout fourth game in Cleveland, and Iglesius has shown sparks of development that he might be able to turn into a consistent helping hand off the bench. Hester brings previously unseen speed and good hands to a young core in which he finds himself one of the most experienced.
And it is important to mention the solid effort by second string quarterback Todd Collins on Saturday. In getting the start in lou of Cutler's day off, Collins went 10 for 15 with 139 yards and a TD in two quarters of play. He looked poised and controlled, and what we saw from Collins was particularly impressive considering how recently he signed with the team. But hey, I guess that's what 16 years in the league can do for you.
But no matter how many shining stars I saw, I can't deny that this team has its fair share of problems.
My most notable concern is the play of the offensive line. To begin the preseason in San Diego, Cutler had to be removed early due to the coaching staff's fear of him leaving the stadium crippled from a meaningless game. This concern goes especially to left tackle Chris Williams, who just looks completely beatable no matter which lineman lines up opposite him. Perhaps he's struggling at this position because of how much time he saw at right tackle last year, but I don't think that the transitioning process should be impeding his progress to a point of a standstill, which is close to what we're seeing.
Another concern is the recent roster cuts of saftey Al Afalava and special teams master Tim Shaw. Afalava was the fourth stringer behind Chris Harris, Josh Bullocks, and Major Wright at the free safety position. But Harris hasn't played with Chicago for years, so why do the Bears feel guaranteed results out of him? And Wright is new to the NFL, so there's no guarantee he'll produce either. And as for Shaw, he led Chicago in special teams tackles last season, and he's got an eye for getting to the ball like he carries a radar on the field. Nick Roach and Pisa Tinoisamoa do produce better results at the linebacker postition, but who will make all of those special teams tackles that he won't be making now? I understand the Bears must cut their roster from 75 to their final 53 man squad by September 4th but I feel cuts may have been better suited at other positions with more skill and depth.
So it wasn't the greatest preseason we could've asked for. But games are not won and lost in the preseason and futures are not sealed in September. They may have left Cleveland 0-4, but they will be 0-0 when they debut in Soldier Field against Detroit.
If you care to look at history, consider that the 1985 Monsters of the Midway were 0-3 in the preseason before salvaging a win. Or maybe that just two years ago, before the Lions made history by being the first NFL team without a win in a 16 game season, they dominated preseason play with a 4-0 record. And if you enjoy the present even more, how about the fact that Indy just finished going 0-4 as well to begin this year? But whether I see four wins or four losses, I don't get caught up in preseasonal record. If you believe that wins and losses are the important thing, then you might as well go to Bears training camp in Bourbonnais and try to keep score between Jay Cutler and Julius Peppers.
My number one concern with preseason football is injuries; as long as every player in a blue and orange jersey jogs off the field after every series without grimacing, the other meaningless details are just dandy with me. Well, I wish it was that simple. But while trying to keep everyone healthy, it is still important to see improvements and make corrections.
In watching all four games, though, I saw an 0-4 record and multiple injuries, some pertaining to starters and some benchwarmers. But this doesn't make the preseason a disaster. In fact, I wouldn't even say this preseason was a failure.
The media has blown these losses into such a big deal that it looks as though some of those writers expect the armageddon as soon as Jay Cutler throws his first pass against the Detroit defense. Although none of the four games were particularly impressive performances, there are nevertheless positive things to take away from them.
In paying attention to individual performances, I saw multiple players that showed impressive skill and development--most notably those that make up the receiving core.
Devin Aromashodu proved to be worthy of playing time late last year in being a great third man off the bench. He looks to continue from right where he ended, as he's caught 7 passes for 104 yards and a touchdown in this year's preseason. He hasn't had many opportunities, but when he does he seems to always take full advantage. Although it doesn't help that new offensive coordinator Mike Martz has implemented a very complicated offensive system, it'll provide this very young core new opportunities that may spark success; if the Bears can concoct some imagination when given the football, that could lead to these speedy receivers making big plays for Cutler and the offense.
Johnny Knox, Devin Hester, Rashied Davis, and Juaquin Iglesius also look good. Knox leads Bears receivers with 7 catches for 135 yards and a touchdown. Davis had an standout fourth game in Cleveland, and Iglesius has shown sparks of development that he might be able to turn into a consistent helping hand off the bench. Hester brings previously unseen speed and good hands to a young core in which he finds himself one of the most experienced.
And it is important to mention the solid effort by second string quarterback Todd Collins on Saturday. In getting the start in lou of Cutler's day off, Collins went 10 for 15 with 139 yards and a TD in two quarters of play. He looked poised and controlled, and what we saw from Collins was particularly impressive considering how recently he signed with the team. But hey, I guess that's what 16 years in the league can do for you.
But no matter how many shining stars I saw, I can't deny that this team has its fair share of problems.
My most notable concern is the play of the offensive line. To begin the preseason in San Diego, Cutler had to be removed early due to the coaching staff's fear of him leaving the stadium crippled from a meaningless game. This concern goes especially to left tackle Chris Williams, who just looks completely beatable no matter which lineman lines up opposite him. Perhaps he's struggling at this position because of how much time he saw at right tackle last year, but I don't think that the transitioning process should be impeding his progress to a point of a standstill, which is close to what we're seeing.
Another concern is the recent roster cuts of saftey Al Afalava and special teams master Tim Shaw. Afalava was the fourth stringer behind Chris Harris, Josh Bullocks, and Major Wright at the free safety position. But Harris hasn't played with Chicago for years, so why do the Bears feel guaranteed results out of him? And Wright is new to the NFL, so there's no guarantee he'll produce either. And as for Shaw, he led Chicago in special teams tackles last season, and he's got an eye for getting to the ball like he carries a radar on the field. Nick Roach and Pisa Tinoisamoa do produce better results at the linebacker postition, but who will make all of those special teams tackles that he won't be making now? I understand the Bears must cut their roster from 75 to their final 53 man squad by September 4th but I feel cuts may have been better suited at other positions with more skill and depth.
So it wasn't the greatest preseason we could've asked for. But games are not won and lost in the preseason and futures are not sealed in September. They may have left Cleveland 0-4, but they will be 0-0 when they debut in Soldier Field against Detroit.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Is Manny a Good Fit With Sox?
Manny Ramirez has agreed to swing the bat for the White Sox--and they've agreed to let him.
The White Sox claimed Ramirez off waivers from his former team, the Los Angeles Dodgers, on August 30th; the Sox will assume payment of the rest of Ramirez's salary this season, which stands at roughly $3.8 million. But as the dust now clears, some fans can be found paying closer attention to the White Sox's final 29 games than they did their first 133. Others are convinced that the 12-time All Star is too much trouble to be worth the slim chance that he might produce.
The way I see it, I can't see any reason this is a bad move for Chicago.
Nay-sayers will talk about his alleged steriod use, as he was found to be one of 104 players who tested positive for PEDs in a 2003 survey. They will also talk about his off the field issues, ranging from rumors of grotesque activities in hotel rooms to the overall way he treats others.
But no matter how he spends his freetime in a hotel room, it doesn't change the fact that on top of his 12 All Star appearances he also owns two World Series rings, for one of which he was also awarded the Most Valuable Player award. And if you'd like a cherry on top of your sundae, this nine-time Silver Slugger award and two-time Hank Aaron award winner can also claim leading the American League in RBIs, home runs and batting average, each of which was accomplished on a different year than the others.
But if you don't care for past statistics, as this 38 year old is well past his prime, then maybe you'd be willing to look at recent success. Ramirez has only appeared in 67 games this year (66 with LA, 1 with Chicago), but he stilled boasts a batting average of .312 with 8 homers and 40 driven in. His three trips to the disabled list this season has been the reason for playing less than half the Dodgers' schedule.
But injuries aside, when Manny is hot there is seemingly no stopping him. He is a natural born run producer who also ranks 14th on baseball's All Time Home Run List with 554 career long ones. Manny is the type of player than can help a team focus in on a goal, which for the White Sox lies in surpassing the surging Twins and ripping the AL Central title out from under them. He is a veteran leader that has proven himself in the game of baseball.
And unlike with his time in Los Angeles this year, Ramirez now wakes up everyday knowing that he is in the thick of a pennant race this season. But being four games out at the beginning of September is no easy hole to climb out of. Regardless of their chances, the mentality changes when racing for a pennant; the players can wake up everyday with a purpose to jog out onto that field.
Considering Manny just joined a new team, and his fourth in his career, we can rightfully expect him to be on his best behavior from here on out; he needs to get to know the players in the locker room before he can make them wish he wasn't there. But they seem excited to have him and hopefully he feels excited to be there. And with Manny playing not just for the playoffs but also for a contract for next season, with whoever that may be, expecting his best behavior shouldn't be considered a stretch.
But the best part of it all is that if the Sox become fed up with Manny and his antics, they can simply release him at the end of the year (which I fully expect them to do). But by paying almost four million dollars to a questionable piece of an offensive puzzle at the beginning of September, GM Kenny Williams is showing that he refuses to lay down and die. Being four games out isn't easy, but then again, crying about it isn't really an option.
The White Sox claimed Ramirez off waivers from his former team, the Los Angeles Dodgers, on August 30th; the Sox will assume payment of the rest of Ramirez's salary this season, which stands at roughly $3.8 million. But as the dust now clears, some fans can be found paying closer attention to the White Sox's final 29 games than they did their first 133. Others are convinced that the 12-time All Star is too much trouble to be worth the slim chance that he might produce.
The way I see it, I can't see any reason this is a bad move for Chicago.
Nay-sayers will talk about his alleged steriod use, as he was found to be one of 104 players who tested positive for PEDs in a 2003 survey. They will also talk about his off the field issues, ranging from rumors of grotesque activities in hotel rooms to the overall way he treats others.
But no matter how he spends his freetime in a hotel room, it doesn't change the fact that on top of his 12 All Star appearances he also owns two World Series rings, for one of which he was also awarded the Most Valuable Player award. And if you'd like a cherry on top of your sundae, this nine-time Silver Slugger award and two-time Hank Aaron award winner can also claim leading the American League in RBIs, home runs and batting average, each of which was accomplished on a different year than the others.
But if you don't care for past statistics, as this 38 year old is well past his prime, then maybe you'd be willing to look at recent success. Ramirez has only appeared in 67 games this year (66 with LA, 1 with Chicago), but he stilled boasts a batting average of .312 with 8 homers and 40 driven in. His three trips to the disabled list this season has been the reason for playing less than half the Dodgers' schedule.
But injuries aside, when Manny is hot there is seemingly no stopping him. He is a natural born run producer who also ranks 14th on baseball's All Time Home Run List with 554 career long ones. Manny is the type of player than can help a team focus in on a goal, which for the White Sox lies in surpassing the surging Twins and ripping the AL Central title out from under them. He is a veteran leader that has proven himself in the game of baseball.
And unlike with his time in Los Angeles this year, Ramirez now wakes up everyday knowing that he is in the thick of a pennant race this season. But being four games out at the beginning of September is no easy hole to climb out of. Regardless of their chances, the mentality changes when racing for a pennant; the players can wake up everyday with a purpose to jog out onto that field.
Considering Manny just joined a new team, and his fourth in his career, we can rightfully expect him to be on his best behavior from here on out; he needs to get to know the players in the locker room before he can make them wish he wasn't there. But they seem excited to have him and hopefully he feels excited to be there. And with Manny playing not just for the playoffs but also for a contract for next season, with whoever that may be, expecting his best behavior shouldn't be considered a stretch.
But the best part of it all is that if the Sox become fed up with Manny and his antics, they can simply release him at the end of the year (which I fully expect them to do). But by paying almost four million dollars to a questionable piece of an offensive puzzle at the beginning of September, GM Kenny Williams is showing that he refuses to lay down and die. Being four games out isn't easy, but then again, crying about it isn't really an option.
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