Da Bears Den

The Pressure is on the Bears Defense

Do you remember back in the 2005 and 2006 seasons, when people were calling the Bears defense the best in the NFL?

Or when a lot of people were comparing those defenses to that of the 1985 Super Bowl champions?

Things have changed, my friends.

In the 2007 and 2008 seasons, the Bears didn't play up to their potential on defense.

They were blowing leads, blowing coverage, and missing tackles. Something was wrong.

Sure, you can credit Ron Rivera's departure for San Diego as a potential cause. Or was it just the fact that the defense was actually bad?

Well, whatever the reason, the defense had better step it up this year.

The pressure is all on them.

Forget the pressure that will be put on Jay Cutler to succeed. Forget the pressure for Matt Forte to duplicate his rookie season. Forget the pressure on the receiving corps.

Cutler could throw for 30 or more touchdowns, Forte could run for 1,000 yards, and the receivers could easily have big years, but none of that will matter if the defense is not playing to 2006 form.

That's why all the pressure is on the defense this season.

The Bears certainly cant have the defense blowing late leads, in games we should be winning. It will be up to them to buckle down and keep the leads intact.

Staying healthy is also key.

The last two years we have seen Nathan Vasher, Brian Urlacher, Tommie Harris, Mike Brown, Charles Tillman, Dusty Dvoracek, and Adewale Ogunleye all have injury problems.

If those guys can stay healthy and the defense is back in form, this team can have a scary defense.

On the flip side, if injuries are a problem again and the defense isn't up to form, this team can have a bad defense.

The key to this season weighs on the defense's shoulders. Giving up a lot of points and forcing the offense to play better than advertised might be tough.

The offense can only do so much.

If the offense is putting up big numbers and torching defenses but the defense itself is getting torched, that will be a problem.

I'm asking for Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs, Tillman, Harris, and Vasher all to play up to expectations. If they do that, I believe they will be a dominant defense.

So Cutler, Forte and the receivers can take a deep breath. Go out there and play up to your capabilities. Don't worry about it.

It's the defense that should feel the pressure for the Bears to have a successful season

A Make or Break Season for Tommie Harris?

Ever since Tommie Harris' injury in 2006, which cost him to miss the playoffs and untimely the Super Bowl, the once feared defensive lineman just hasn't been the same.

In his rookie year of 2004, Tommie recorded 43 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and one forced fumble. He had a pretty good year in 2005 also, having 32 tackles, three sacks, and two forced fumbles. In 12 games in the 2006 season, he had 28 tackles and five sacks.

Tommie was a dominant force for the Bears. He was moving up the ladder and making a name for himself as one of the best defensive lineman in the NFL, until Tommie went down with a hamstring injury that cost him the rest of the season.

See, stats were not everything for Tommie. Even if they didn't show it, Tommie was a dominant lineman for the Bears. Causing havoc in opponents backfields for one of the NFL's best defense in 2005-06.

The next year Tommie returned, playing in all sixteen games. His numbers didn't match his previous production for the Bears. He was also bugged by a knee injury that seemed to slow him down just a step or two.

In 2008, Harris only played in 14 games and was bugged by an apparent knee injury. He finished with 37 tackles and five sacks. Those aren't bad, but Tommie didn't look like his old dominant self.

Is 2009, a make or break year for Tommie? What happens if that knee injury bugs him again, and he cant get pressure on the quarterback?

Only time will tell for Tommie, but time might be running out.

If Tommie has a bad year in 2009, I expect the Bears to try and trade him and maybe get youth or a draft pick.

Still, the Bears depth on the defensive line is good enough to pick up the slack for Harris. Ogunleye, Brown, Dvoracek, and Anderson all can fill in for Tommie.

If Harris is dominant and can get good pressure on the quarterback, the Bears might have another best in the NFL defense.

It all relies on Tommie.

Chicago Bears 2009 Season Preveiw Part IV

Week Fourteen: vs Green Bay, Dec. 13 2009. 12:00 CST

The Bears finish their season series with rivals Green Bay, this time at home.

The Bears beat the Packers at home last year in a thrilling overtime finish that kept their playoff hopes alive.

This game could have big implications on the NFC North and playoffs. Both teams could be fighting for the division lead or wild card spot.

If the Packers were to be fighting for the division lead, their defense will have to step up big. In the first game against the Bears last year, the Packers defense gave up only three points. In the second meeting, they blew a late lead.

The Bears will have to establish their run game early and get into an offensive groove. Scoring points early will be the key to a Bears win.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 16-13 Packers

Week Fifteen: at Baltimore, Dec. 20, 2009. 12:00 CST

Two young quarterbacks will battle each other in a December matchup in Baltimore. Joe Flacco led the Ravens to the playoffs last year in his rookie year, and hopes to do the same again. Jay Cutler also hopes to lead the Bears to the playoffs in his first year with Chicago.

Both teams could have clinched a playoff spot by now, but don't count out a tough, physical defensive game between two good defenses.

I expect both defenses to come out and play up to expectations, and the offense will have to win the game for either team.

I'm going to favor the Bears offense in this game, simply because they have more weapons.

Although I think the Bears are the better team, I can see Baltimore taking this one. Especially since it's in Baltimore.

Final Score Prediction: Ravens 15-10 Bears

Week Sixteen: vs Minnesota, Dec. 28 2009. 7:30 CST

This is the Bears' only Monday night game of the year, but what better time and game to have?

The Bears and Vikings square off in a huge divisional game that just might determine the division winner.

Both teams could be at the top of the NFC North, so this game pretty much means everything to these two teams.

The Bears won last year's meeting in Chicago, with Kyle Orton leading the charge.

I like the Bears in this one, and here's why; Chicago will have the home crowd behind them, in what could be the deciding game for the division.

I know Chicago fans, and they get pretty excited for games like this.

I expect the Bears defense to finally clamp down and stop Adrian Peterson, who has torched the Bears in all four of his games against them.

It's also important for the Bears offense to come out and maintain a steady game plan. With the tough Minnesota run defense, the pass game will have to win it for them.

Who knows though, both these teams could also be eliminated from playoff contention at this point.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 31-20 Vikings

Week Seventeen: at Detroit, Jan. 3 2010. 12:00 CST

In the final regular season week for the NFL, this could be a meaningless game for both teams.

The Bears could have clinched a playoff spot or division title, and maybe home field advantage.

On the other hand the Bears could also be fighting for the division title or wildcard berth. Anything can happen during the season.

As for Detroit, I expect them once again to be playing for pride. I think they will improve from last year, but not enough for a playoff spot.

We could also see the second string for the Bears to give the starters a rest.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 23-12 Lions (If Bears haven't clinched yet)

Lions 17-10 Bears (If Bears are resting starters)

Key Player—Devin Hester.

Hester could be the Bears' No. 1 wide receiver to start off the year. It will be important for him to come up with big plays during the final weeks of the season.

2009 Bears Season Preview Part 3

In this four part preview of the 2009 Chicago Bears, I will preview weeks 10-13.

Week Ten: at San Fransisco, Nov. 12 2009. 7:20 CST

In this Thursday night NFL Network game the Bears travel to take on a 49ers team that improved over the off season, and might be a contender in the NFC West.

This is the third consecutive year the Bears will play a game on the NFL Network's Thursday Night Football.

In 2007 they lost to the Redskins at Washington, and last year they beat the Saints in a must win game at home.

This will also be the first time new 49ers head coach Mike Singletary will face his former team.

The 49ers improved over the offseason when they got lucky and had Michael Crabtree fall to them. They can thank the Oakland Raiders for that.

Crabtree is a game changer in my opinion, and if Gore can stay healthy the 49ers have a shot to win that division.

This could be a big game for the Bears also. This will be their second game in four days, with an earlier start time because of the western time zone.

The Bears have won two of the last three against San Fran. In 2001 they won on a OT touchdown by Mike Brown. In 2003, they were blown out bad at San Fransisco.

The 49ers weak secondary will be the key to this game. If Cutler can establish a rhythm early and get hot, it could be a long day for the 49ers defense.

On the other side, Chicago has to stop Frank Gore and the 'Niner run game. Otherwise it will be a long game for them.

I like the Bears in this one, because they are more talented on both sides on the ball.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 13, 49ers 9

Week Eleven: vs Philadelphia, Nov. 22 2009. 7:20 CST

The Eagles come into sweet home Chicago for the Bears second consecutive prime-time game.

The Eagles are my pick to win the Super Bowl, and why not? They have an explosive offense with McNabb, Westbrook, Jackson, and now Maclin.

They also added Pro-Bowl left tackle Jason Peters. Scary, huh?

The Eagles could even be the best team in the NFL next season, but who knows?

The Bears barely beat the Eagles last season who where without stud running back Brian Westbrook. But a key goal line stand saved the game in the fourth quarter for the Bears.

This should be a huge game for both teams, and what a better way to settle it than on NBC Sunday Night Football.

Both teams should be fighting for division titles and possibly home field advantage for the playoffs.

The Eagles are just too much for the Bears this season. I expect them to come into Soldier Field and quiet the crowd early. Never letting the Bears offense establish rhythm is key.

Final Score Prediction: Eagles 24, Bears 16

Week Twelve: at Vikings. Nov. 29, 2009. 12:00 CST

This is the first meeting between the division rivals for the 2009 season, and I expect both teams to be first and second in the division.

This should line up as a huge game for both teams and maybe even the division lead at stake.

Last year the teams split the series with both winning at home.

The Vikings return a fast offense with Peterson, Berrian, and the newest addition Percy Harvin.

Last year the Bears blew a golden chance to take a big lead in the division when they went ahead early in Minnesota. But a big rally by the Vikings sealed the deal for them.

This should be one of those hard fought NFC North battles, that will end in a tight finish.

I think Minnesota has the advantage with home field, but expect the Bears to be fired up.

The Vikings still have a question mark at quarterback. Will it be Tavaris Jackson, Sage Rosenfels, or Brett Favre?

All three quarter backs could make the game a different game, but we will have to wait and see.

I'm going to take Minnesota in this one, just for the fact they will have the home field crowd with them.

Cutler and the Bears make it interesting late, but the Vikings hold on.

Final Score Prediction: Vikings 27, Bears 23

Week Thirteen: vs St. Louis, Dec. 6, 2009. 12:00 CST

The Bears come back home after a division matchup against the Vikings, looking to get back on track.

The Rams had a terrible year last year and are in rebuilding mode.

What a perfect time for the Bears to have this game on the schedule after two tough games against the Eagles and Vikings.

This is one of those games that the Bears need to take advantage of on the schedule <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:"Cambria Math"; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:1; mso-generic-font-family:roman; mso-font-format:other; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 0 0 0 0 0;} @font-face {font-family:Calibri; panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:swiss; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:-1610611985 1073750139 0 0 159 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-unhide:no; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; margin-top:0in; margin-right:0in; margin-bottom:10.0pt; margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoChpDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; mso-default-props:yes; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} .MsoPapDefault {mso-style-type:export-only; margin-bottom:10.0pt; line-height:115%;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> —one of those so called "should win games." If your a good team, you need to win the games like this on the schedule.

I don't know how much St. Louis will improve from last season, but the Bears are ultimately the better team.

Cutler and the offense should once again have a field day against a weak Rams secondary. Forte should have a big game also.

This should be a nice bounce back game for the Bears.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 38, Rams 10

Key Player: Matt Forte. Forte needs to stay healthy and on track for the Bears to have a good season. All the wear and tear throughout the season could take its toll on Forte. Playing in big games late down the stretch, could make Forte better.

Season Preview Part 2

This is the second article in a series of four articles that I am writing to preview the 2009 Chicago Bears season. Training camp is right around the corner, and that means the NFL season is on the way. So enjoy my previews. The Bears bye week is during week five, so I will skip ahead to the week six match up.

Week Six: at Atlanta, Oct. 18, 7:15 CST

The Bears travel to Atlanta to take on the Falcons for the second year in a row. This time it will be on NBC's Sunday Night Football. Both teams on paper match up pretty evenly. Last years game between the two teams was a excellent game, even though the Bears lost a heart breaker. The Bears scored with eleven seconds left to go ahead, but a quick Matt Ryan pass and then a field goal won it for Atlanta. Depending on how the first couple weeks of the season goes, this could be a huge match up for playoff seeds for both teams. Atlanta is led by quarterback Matt Ryan who is looking to avoid the so-called "Sophmore Slump." The Bears had trouble stopping Atlanta's run game last year with Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood leading the way.

 The key to the game for the Bears is to play solid defense. Atlanta likes to pound the ball with Turner, and let Matt Ryan do his thing through the air.

If Chicago can play good defense for 60 minutes they should come out victorious.

I see this game being decided again in the final seconds with special teams. This time though, I think the Bears come out on top. This has the potential to be a really great game.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 23, Falcons 20.

Week Seven: at Cincinnati, Sunday Oct. 25, 12:00 CST

The Bears travel to Cincinnati to take on a Bengals team who hasn't made the playoffs since 2006.

This should be a good game for Chicago to get a out of division win, and truly see where their team is at in the season.

The last time these two teams met was way back in 2005 when the Bengals came into Soldier Field and whooped the Bears.

This is a much different Bengals team since the last time the Bears saw them. They lost wide receiver TJ Houshmandzadeh to free agency, Carson Palmer has not been the same since his injury, and Chad Ochocinco has had all kinds of problems the last few years.

The Bengals are still the Bengals from last season and on paper the Bears are a much more talented team.

The Bears also get to face their former teammate Cedric Benson for the first time since they released him in the Summer of 2008.

I predict the Bears will come out and get a big lead on a poor Bengals defense. Cutler should be able to take advantage of the week defense and play a solid game.

The Bengals offense doesnt look like it can match up with the Bears defense, so advantage Bears in that one.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 30, Bengals 13

Week Eight: vs Cleveland, Nov. 1, 12:00 CST

The Bears play their second straight AFC North opponent when the Cleveland Browns come to town on the first day of November.

These two teams met in 2005 with Cleveland winning a real close game at home. This time it's in Chicago. Where the last time these teams met here something special happend.

You may remember a chilly October afternoon in 2001 when the Browns came into town to take on the Bears.

The Browns built a size able lead before the Bears made their comeback, and led to Mike Browns game winning interception return for a touchdown in over time.

I don't see the Browns improving much off of last years bad season. They still don't know who their quarterback is right now, and quite frankly we might not know who we are going to see in week eight.

Brady Quinn? or Derek Anderson?

I see Chicago being way too much for the Browns to handle especially in Chicago.

The Bears should be right a top the NFC North around this time, and the fans will be excited in Chicago.

Chicago's defense also has the players to shut down Cleveland's average offense.

This wont be a blowout and the Browns could make it close at the end, but I like Chicago.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 17, Browns 13

Week Nine: vs Arizona, Nov. 8, 12:00 CST

The defending NFC Champion Arizona Cardinals come into Chicago in what could be a huge game in determining playoff seed's in the NFC.

With all the trade speculation involving Anquan Boldin, this might not be the same Cardinals team that won the NFC a year ago.

This will be a good match up between two teams that originated in Chicago.

The Keys for the Bears will be to stop the Cardinals passing game. Pressure on Kurt Warner is a must. We cant let him have time to fire to his targets.

Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald are two good receivers that can change the game at any time. If the Bears defense fails to play well, it could be a long day for Chicago.

The Bears' offense gives them a shot to win the game, but it all relies on the defensive play, and especially the corner backs.

Final Score Prediction: Cardinals 17, Bears 13

Key Player: Tommie Harris. It's important for Tommie to get off to a good start, but better yet be healthy for the whole season. The midway point is where we will see if Tommie can stay healthy. If he is able to stay healthy, the Bears can have one of the best defensive lines in football

A Preview of the 2009 Chicago Bears Schedule

Note: This article is also featured on Bleacherreport.com on my account.

As the Bears kicked off their OTA's this past week and are preparing for training camp at the end of July, I figure this is a good time to start my 2009 Chicago Bears season preview.

In this four part article I will break down the Bears opponents, players to watch, and predictions.

Week One: at Green Bay, Sept. 13 2009. 7:05 CST

The Bears open the 2009 campaign for the second straight year on the road. Last season it was at Indianapolis, and this season it will be against hated rival's the Green Bay Packers.

I don't need to explain the rivalry to you between these teams, because I'm sure you know about it. Instead I'll leave you with a nice fact, since the NFC North formed in 2002, the Bears or the Packers have won the division every year except for last year when the Vikings won it.

This game will be huge for both teams to start off the year.

Both teams would love to open the season with a win, especially against a division rival.

With the arrival of Jay Cutler to Chicago, this game now takes a little more excitement on the national stage. Two young quarter backs in Aaron Rodgers and Cutler will be duking it out for years to come.

The key for the Bears is to use their run game to their advantage and have the defense play dominant. Last year they went into Green Bay and got destroyed by the Pack, before pulling out a game in over time Week 16 in Chicago.

You can bet your bottom dollar that the Bears remember last years trip to Green Bay and will be out for revenge.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 17, Packers 16

Week Two: vs Pittsburgh, Sept. 20 2009. 3:15 CST

The defending Super Bowl champions come into town to take on the Bears. These two teams last met way back in 2005 with Pittsburgh getting the win and eventually becoming Super Bowl XL champions.

Pittsburgh is set for a repeat by nearly bringing back their entire Super Bowl team from last year.

If the Bears are to pull off an early season upset, they will have to have their defense clicking on all cylinders. The defense will have to shut down the Steelers potent offense and rush Big Ben into throws.

If the Bears can get early pressure on Big Ben and rattle him, along with the offense scoring early and getting a good lead the Bears can win this game.

I just don't see that happening.

Final Score Prediction: Steelers 24, Bears 16

Week Three: at Seattle, Sept. 27 2009. 3:15 CST

The Bears play in their third straight afternoon/night game of the season when they make the friendly visit to Seattle.

Last time Chicago was in Seattle they suffered a loss that killed any hope of the playoffs in 2007.

Seattle is a team that seems to be rebuilding and wont be a contender for a couple years. The Bears get their first look at stud linebacker Aaron Curry, who in my mind is going to be one of the elite linebackers in the NFL within a few years.

The Bears will just be to much for the Seahawks.

I see Cutler and Forte having big games against this Seattle defense, and the Bears defense putting out a dominant performance.

Home field for Seattle could be critical. If they can jump out to a early 10 or 14 point lead and get the crowd into the game, Chicago might be in trouble.

I just don't see that happening.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 27, Seattle 10

Week Four: vs Detroit, Oct. 4 2009, 12:00 CST

In another battle between division rivals, the Bears host the Detroit Lions in a Week-Four showdown.

A interesting question will be if we will see the pro debut of Matt Stafford, who the Lions took first overall in this years draft.

It might be time for the Lions to give Stafford the reps, and expect a Bears defense to be hungry with a rookie quarterback at the helm.

The way I see this game is in two ways. I can see this being a trap game for the Bears who start off the season by winning two or more games.

Or I can see this game being dominated by the Bears as they did against the Lions last year.

For the second straight game I predict the Bears defense to show up and be dominant. The Lions really only have one weapon on offense that scares me in Calvin Johnson. But I'm confident the Bears will take care of business.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 34, Lions 10.

Player to watch for: Jay Cutler. The quarterback who was brought into Chicago from Denver in an offseason trade will need to step up. The Bears offense will feed off Cutler and his playmaking ability.

I see the Bears finishing the first quarter of the 2009 NFL season by going 3-1 and leading the NFC North. Now there is still a lot of football to be played, and anything can happen from now until September.

Forte: A Fantasy Football Treasure

I recently saw the NFL fantasy football power rankings that NFL.com put out. I scrolled through the top ten, looking at the players that will most likely be taken in the first round of most drafts.

I stumbled across the top two players: Adrian Peterson and Matt Forte. I thought to myself for a second and said, "You know what? I'm going to take Forte if I have the first pick in my league." I advise you to do the same.

Yes Adrian Peterson (Vikings), is the best running back in the NFL, but Matt Forte is the best overall fantasy player.

Here is why.

Peterson put up 1,760 rushing yards compared to Forte's 1,238. Peterson had 10 touchdowns with Forte getting eight.

Advantage Peterson in those categories.

Forte had 63 receptions for 477 yards and four touchdowns. Peterson had only 21 receptions for 125 yards and 0 touchdowns.

Advantage Forte in those categories. Now lets break down another category that decides this matchup.

Matt Forte had only one fumble in 316 attempts. Adrian Peterson had nine fumbles in 363 attempts.

Fumbles are an important stat in fantasy football because it gives you minus points.

Forte seems to be a more versatile back than Peterson. Last year, when Orton was in trouble, he dumped it off to Forte for a nice pickup almost every time.

With the Bears adding Jay Cutler as their quarterback, Forte now becomes another target for the strong armed QB.

With the Bears lacking a true No. 1 receiver, look for Forte to be a option on a lot of plays. The Bears have shown that they will use the running back as much as possible in their offense.

I expect Forte to blow up with a monster year, and fantasy owners will drool over the stats he will get you.

So for the people who want to pick AP first, just think about it for a second. Look at the stats and realize that Forte will probably be a safer option.

Peterson will probably split some time with Chester Taylor, who will more than likely come in during some third down plays.

Another thing to look at is Forte will most likely be in for at least 95 percent of Chicago's offensive plays this year. In 2008 he was in on almost every third down play they ran.

Forte should be your pick, especially if your looking for a keeper league running back that you want for the future of your team.

The best laid plans.....

And no, I'm not making a reference to the afore mentioned "whore on nickel beer night". The Bears got the breaks they needed and failed horribly to do anything with it. The end of season summary is fairly simple. Matt Forte is the real deal. Kyle Orton is a fantastic back up QB. Devon Hester looks to be a superstar WR in the making. The defense as a whole is still good, not great, but good enough if the offensive side of the ball could do anything more than what they're currently putting forth. Robbie Gould is a playa! For my money the best in the business. Now for coach Lovie Smith. He's not yet proved that he's in the elite category, but is a keeper. Now if he could just get past his loyalty to Rex and Kyle the entire organization would be better off. The bottom line for this year is that Da Bears simply didn't deserve to go any farther. They had their chances and came up short. Disappointing is the only word that is applicable. See ya at the draft Bears fans.

It's on!

We don't need to go down the path as to how the Bears will make the post season. More importantly let me shed some light onto why the Minnesota Vikings don't deserve to. Once again, their two best defensive players broke the rules, but we not suspended. Hmmm.... Jared Allen is a flat out dirty player. When talking with Giant fans this week their only concern is said idiot cheapshotting Eli Manning. Hmmm.... The coach looks like that freaky dude from that sitcom "Evening Shade". That's enough about him. Hmmm.... The QB has the best first name in the NFL. That is if you like late 70's music references. Hmmm.... They now play in a dome. Whatever happened to football? Outside, freezing, gotta bring some kind of bottle in with you just to make it through the game football? I hate domes. Hmmm... And lastly, we're talking about a state that elected Jesse "The Body" Ventura, and now most likely Al "Stewart Smalley" Frankin as Governor. Really Minnesota? Do you people go for anything shiny? Perhaps we should change the state motto to: "Hey, he's famous, bet he'd make a fine elected official." Hmmm... So now all we can do now is pray that the NY Giants come to town and take care of business, and that we can go down to Houston and do the same. Da Bears are going to kick some major Texas ass today!!

Oh what a night

Last nights game was the best and worst of what being a Bears fan is all about. Watching the horrid offense fall on its face for most of the game left most of us throwing up blood. Kyle Orton showed why we keep praying for a real answer. But let's give the man credit where it's due, he was able put the team into field goal position come overtime. Once again Matt Forte looked like all that and a big old bag of chips. Is there anything this guy can't do? And my personal favorite moment of the game was when Lance Briggs almost killed Ryan Grant. Imagine getting hit that hard in that cold of weather. You could bury me on the spot. To the fans who went shirtless last night, way to show the eastern football fans who rules. Out here if the mercury dips below 35 degree's more than likely you'll see the fans huddled around like a bunch of homeless women in some eastern European country hoping to get some warmth from a burning garbage can. And lastly, my man Robbie "Good As Gold" Gould. In a word, you simply rock. Clutch is too weak of a word to describe how clutch you are. Now all we need is for the Giants to show up Sunday and beat those annoying Vikings. Yeah, the Texans are playing good, but with the season on the line I have no doubt that Da Bears will step up to the challenge.

It's right there for the taking Bears!!

Not much left to say, other than go get after it Bears. The Vikings lost, and will lose again next week against the Giants because if there is one thing we know is that the G-men don't mail anything in. Sure the Packers beat the Holy crap out of us the first time around, but what happens in a divisional game stays in the division. I look for the D to really step up and beat Aaron Rodgers like he was trying to replace Paul Rodgers in Bad Company. Or is it Queen now? Anyway, whatever retro-sounding act that Paul Rodgers is crooning for these days. If Matt Forte can play at 100% this is his game to own. Hey Matt, the pink slip is in the glove compartment, take us for a spin. It may cost me my marriage, but this is a game that simply has to be seen. Sorry mother in law, but you and wifey can do some shopping, I'll be at the bar watching my Bears get revenge on the Cheese headed freaks.

One more small pro bowl gripe

Do the names Devon Hester and Danieal Manning mean anything? If there is one area that Da Bears reign supreme it has to be in the special teams department. If former Buffalo Bill Steve Tasker can get a trip to Hawaii don't you think our two lovely lads deserve similar treatment? We can only hope that Monday night these guys can run through the Pack with the same efficiency they've done pretty much all season. This could be the proverbial straw to break the Green Bay back. Let's hope they show up and have a game that needs to be played. 

Da Bears will know before the game even starts

The one thing Bears fans will know before kickoff Monday night is whether the game matters at all. Yes, I know, you play every game to win, thanks Herm Edwards, but this will really let us know how upset we should get while watching. If the Atlanta Falcons can beat the Minnesota Vikings, then game on. And I do expect that to happen. I look for Matt Ryan to play at a level that will make Gus Ferrot and Tavaris "One song on the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack apparently doesn't make you a strong reference" Jackson, feel like the absolute sick losers that they are. Then all we need is for the Giants to finish their season strongly by beating the Vikings, Bears win against Houston and bang/zoom, we're in the playoffs. Am I skipping steps? Of course. But who really wants to go into the minutia of all the possible ways this could play out. Matt Forte is going to redeem the Bears for their performance against the Pack last time out.

Can the Pro Bowl hook a brother up?

 I went through the list of pro bowlers like a bulldog eating oatmeal. You know what I found? That Eli Manning and Brett Favre are the recipients of some good will, and the Chicago Bears screwed the pooch. Yeah, I wanted to come out and rage against the machine. "Da Bears get no respect! It's a masonic conspiracy! Watch out for the floods!" Unfortunately I found absolutely no evidence to support that claim. So instead of getting to go on a Dan Brown "Da Vinci Code" thrill ride, searching for the Truth, the real truth, I get to sit here in my fruit of the looms and admit that yes, sadly, the Bears don't have a whole lot going on right now. That's not to say I don't think they can't still win their division and then go on a surprising playoff run, but as far as individual achievements there's not much there. Matt Forte was going to be the jewel in my crown of how we got shtuped, but alas the players chosen ahead of him actually are having better years. Some times you have to call it like it is, and Da Bears aren't there yet. But lest we forget the real meaning of Christmas, Abdul, this is a team sport. So I do look for the Bears to finish strong. This time of year relish the small pleasures in life. A child holding your hand and talking about Santa. A warm fire and a hot bowl of stew. The Bears kicking the ever loving crap out of those Cheese headed freaks from Green Bay on Monday Night!! I will not relinquish!! I will not go quietly into that goodnight!! Burn Cheese Heads! Burn!!!

Vikings win, crap!

The Vikings looked great against the worst divisional champ that football has ever seen, that being the Arizona Cardinals. This obviously hurts our Bears tremendously. I look for the Bears to biatch slap the Pack this weekend, but is there enough time for them to catch the Vikes? Let's hope that Tavaris Jackson is as inept as he appears normally and that yesterday was simply a mirage.

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We'll take it any way we can get it.

The Bears won. That's a fact. Let's not look too deeply into how they did it. Sure they almost blew another big lead, but who cares. Is Kyle Orton going to be the long term solution? If you had to put your money on it which way would you go? Would you A) Keep Orton as your started B) Look to pick up one of the available free agent veterans that will be there after the season C) Go into the draft hoping for an answer.  The right answer isn't so clear. While I definitely can see Mr. Orton's weaknesses, I simply don't want a Donovan McNabb type coming in here. Depending on the draft could be the best choice if you can wait 2-4 years for a guy to develop, but this defense ain't getting any younger. Last nights game wasn't just Orton coming undone again. Rasheed Davis needs to learn how to hold onto the ball or get the frig out. Sorry for hitting you in the hands Rasheed, where else would you like Kyle to put it? The predictable star of the game was once again Robbie "Good As Gold" Gould. This dude is money. For my money the best kicker in the entire NFL. All we need now is for the Vikings to lose out and we should be fine. And lose out they could, take a gander at their schedule. From here out, just get the ball to Matt Forte and let him continue to dominate better than even hallowed Gayle Sayers. More yards in less games has to mean something. At least this Sunday we can just sit back knowing our team has already won.

Time to put up Bears

Tonight's game vs. the New Orleans Saints is the biggest game of the year, and no I'm not overstating it. If the Bears plan on making a playoff run they need this game like a junkie needs his smack. This could end up being a bloodbath, fight to the death with both sides needing it the same. This could be the toughest game left on the schedule. But have no fear. These Saints are going down like a whore on nickel beer night. (yeah, I've used that metaphor before, so sue me) Here's hoping that Reggie Bush can continue to be the bust that he has been. Drew Brees? I'll take you seriously when you get that thing removed from your face. Does anybody even know what the hell that thing is? It looks furry. Expect to see Matt Forte run through the Saints D like a whore on nickel beer night. Wait, now that doesn't make any sense. I think I will sue myself for that. Point being is that I genuinely expect to see the Bears come up big tonight across the board. Mr. Orton should have one of his better outings and just watch the D get at least 3 turnovers and 5 sacks. Really? Aren't you being a homer on this one? Hell no! This is when the Bears start to get ready to go deep in the playoffs. They're gonna beat New Orleans worse than a category 5 hurricane.

Big Win

The Bears D looked in fine form yesterday as they stuffed the Jacksonville Jaguars hard, I mean real hard like. To keep in the Christmas spirit, they pulled a Hermie from Rudolph and tore the teeth out of the once mighty Jaguars and left them as intimidating as a post Yukon Cornelius Bumble. In short, they looked good. Kyle Orton is still having interception problems, but he'll sort it out. What impressed me the most was, once again, the play of all world rookie RB Matt Forte. Could he be any friggin' better? If this kid doesn't get rookie of the year, sorry Mr. Ryan, I contend that we should rise up against the machine and name one after him. It's a drag that a Minnesota judge played homey instead of respected court official, because the Williams boys should have watched their game from the sidelines. And you can't tell me that Detroit couldn't have won that game if the suspensions had been upheld. Sorry, but I just don't buy that it's not their fault for having tested positive. Regardless of how it happened they failed a drug test. Period! (is it bad English for me to say period and then put and exclamation point?) All I know is that if the Bears fail to make the playoffs and the Vikes slip in it will be a travesty. This is a year when all you have to do is get to the post season and role the dice. The Giants showed themselves to be more than mortal and ripe for a playoff surprise. Watch as the Bears keep it rollings.

Bears vs. Jags

Who would win in a fight? A Bear or a Jaguar? In my mind it's the bear. I'm not saying he wouldn't get messed up, but if he gets a hold of the big cat it's over. That's what I expect to see Sunday. Maurice Jones-Drew is the biggest threat that Da Bears face, but he's stoppable. Look for Matt Forte to continue his march towards a deserved rookie of the year award. (which he will lose to Matt Ryan for position reasons) I also look for Kyle Orton to step out, be a man, and play one of his better games. Now is the time for the Bears D to step up and play like we think they're capable of. They could be the  most schizophrenic group in the history of the league. How can they look so good one week and so bad the next? Answer? Time travel. I don't know exactly how that fits in, but some time in the future, no shock there, we'll find out that Brian Urlacher is playing in several games simultaneously. Lance Briggs is probably involved, but I can't say for certain that he's an android. All this shit aside, this is the time to see the Bears show up. One more loss and I may have to start rooting for a better draft pick next year. And that's the worst thing in the world to do. My pick Bears 346, JAGS 3.

New life in a half dead season

Yup, just as we'd hoped those Williams boys have been suspended for what looks like the rest of the season. My heart is breaking for the Minnesota Viking's fans. These two chuckleheads can claim that they didn't know what they were taking all they want. Facts are facts. Yes their lawyer will appeal, but it isn't too likely that will do any good. Without these guys look for Minnesota to fall apart defensively. Sure they play the Lions this weekend, but they have to finish out the season strong to go anywhere. This could be what the Bears were looking for. I know it may be a weak way to win a division, but do you really think I give a rats ass? I'm still not sold on the NY Giants being all that and a bag of chips, so all you gotta do is get in it. To restate the obvious, we have more weaknesses than strengths. Doesn't that kind of make you warm and fuzzy? No? Bottom line is I'd rather watch DA Bears get their shot against an NFC that's not as strong as most "experts" seem to think. I'm just wondering when they're going to make the movie of Rex "The Sex Cannon" Grossman's life, now that they've made one out of Ryan "Biggest Flop in the History of the Free World" Leaf. It's hard to fathom that they have to redo the ending because he had to resign for asking his own players for their drugs. In the history of jackass, no talent ass hats, Mr. Leaf takes the cake as perhaps the biggest jackass, no talent ass hat ever. Plaxico Burriss thinks this guy is an idiot. One thing you can say for our Chicago Bears, if an undeserving thug does get on the team we let him go prior to him making the organization look like a load. Go Bears, and remember, "Sweep the leg, Johnny, sweep the leg!!!"

Where do we go from here?

I think it was the Allan Parsons Project who first asked that timeless question. If you are a Bears fan the only thing left to do is shake your head in frustrated awe. How they could look so bad is almost a mystery. Did that 99 yard pass to Berrian go in slo-mo for you too? Once again they couldn't come close to stopping Adrian Peterson. I know he's one of the best players in the league, but really, they couldn't slow him down even a little? So where's the good news? Ok, Kyle Orton looked like what a lot of people say he is, a second string QB. The defense got embarrassed, again. At least they've got Matt Forte. This guy looks to be the real deal. The upside here is that the Williams Bro's are going to be suspended for 4 games. That actually could be the biggest break of the season for our Bears. Minnesota should get beat up at least a little without them. The Packers look to be something less than a genuine force. So the question once again is, do we hope to lose out and get a better draft pick? Hell NO!!! The Bears are still in the hunt. They still have a shot. At least when the Bears have a jackass on their team they get rid of him relatively quickly. Living on the east coast the Giant fans are insufferable. I watched the Giants game with a guy who actually complained about field position after the G-men intercepted the Skins. I can't give up on my Bears, they're all that's between me and a bell tower. Here's looking for a rebound this week.

Plenty mo for ya, Peterson!!!

Look this weekend for Da Bears Defense to make Adrian Peterson their official bitch. They shut down the Titans run game, now look for them to do the same against a lesser Minnesota team. Kyle Orton should start warming his arm up now, because he's going to be able to throw all day against the Vikes. Matt Forte should definitely eat some pasta before Sunday. It's important to carbo-load before a big run, and he should get somewhere in the range of 26.3 miles on about 23 attempts. I am looking for at least 4 turnovers by the Vikes. I'm also looking forward to watching Devon Hester take one to the house. Which he will. Absolutely. And lastly, I'm sick of hearing how Green Bay crushed the Bears. They did. So what? Last year the Bears gave them 2 of their 3 losses. It's a divisional thing, don't read to much into it. After Sunday I expect the Bears to hear the lamentations of the Vikings women. If I were a betting man I'd say the score was going to be 34-10. Da Bears!!

Bring it you Viking Biatches!!!

Now that Green Bay got their asses handed to them last night by the New Orleans Saints, it's time for the Bears to gain control of their division by beating up on the Minnesota Vikings. That is a done deal. Take it to the bank, write it in stone, bet the farm on it. At the end of this weekend the Vikes and Pack are going to be looking in on the Bears. Kyle Orton keeps playing like a guy who deserves the big money, long term contract. So why fight it? The options are to go after Matt Cassel or Donovan McNabb. Cassel looks great, so did Scott Mitchell. Donovan has experience, but the vet to go after was Favre. Sure Orton could be a flash in the pan, ie. Rex "Sex Cannon" Grossman, but do we not sign Mr. Orton to a deal because Rexy broke our hearts? Let's stop sounding like the girlfriend who talks constantly about her ex, and get on with it. My only suggestion for Kyle is to do something about that neck beard he's got going on. He looks more like a psychoanalyst than a pro athlete. But if he keeps playing at this level who cares? The only thing left to say is that it way a pleasure to watch the Packers look so friggin' inept last night. Yeah, let Favre go, what has he ever accomplished? Shrewd Green Bay, real shrewd. I know it's an act of fate as to where one is brought up, but thank you God for not having me become one of those idiots who think it's so "original" to place a foam piece of cheese on my head. Really Green Bay, that's the best you can come up with? Small gifts are worth savoring.

Look what I found!!! A Bears D!!!

Sure it was the St. Louis Rams. But who else were the Bears supposed to kick the crap out of Sunday? This is exactly the kind of game they needed to get themselves back on track. There wasn't one facet of this game that the Monsters of the Midway didn't dominate. Kyle Orton looked like the QB we all pray he could be. And why not? He seems to of found his stride. Why not look good against an awful team? It's going to be good practice for next weeks game against the Vikings. One if which Da Bears look to gain sole possesion of first place. Let's hope the New Orleans Saints can keep their season alive tonite with a win over the Packers. Now that the NY Giants have wrapped up everything worth winning in the NFC, why don't we go ahead and play the games anyways, just to see what happens. If the Bears play like they did yesterday, they will not only win their division, but they'll go to the NFC championship game, at the least.

Da Bears!!!

Ok, so I've been busy writing the One Man's Opinion blog. That doesn't mean I don't love the Bears. Since we couldn't find anyone to step in, here I am. First point: I live in New Jersey. Why does that matter? Because people out here turn on their teams faster than a whore going down on nickel beer night. I was at my local pub having a couple with some buddy's and I was actually asked if I wanted the Bears to lose out so we could get a better draft pick. Maybe that's the way they think out here, but my friggin' team is tied for first! Why would I want them to suck? I realize that Kyle Orton isn't the answer. And Rex "The Sex Cannon" Grossman is perhaps the worst QB to ever play the position. And the defense has gone south of Hades since Ron Rivera was insanely let go. But we're tied for first! I don't care that we're 5-5. No one can convince me that the walk on water NY Giants are that much better than everyone else. I live out here. Last year at this time they were calling for the head of Tom Coughlin and Eli Manning. The Bears may not have all the talent that the G-men have, but anyone, and I mean anyone, can get hot in the playoffs. In a year that has seen the least amount of solid play by any single team, the Bears have a chance. And as a fan, that's all you want, a chance. Not a guarentee, like the jackass NY fans seem to believe they deserve, but a shot. Will the defense turn it around in time? Yes. And if you don't believe that then change the channel. The Bears will win their division, and it starts this weekend against the hapless Rams. 6-5 looks pretty good to me. Watch as Urlacher and Co. start to get it together this weekend. Now who do you really think would win in a fight? The entire Giants starting D-line or Ditka? If it takes you longer than a nano-second to answer go be a big blue fan, you'll need the money.