At what point does the sports fan abandon his heart and root with his mind?
I like Rex Grossman but only because Rex Grossman wears #8 for the Chicago Bears. Sure I like his swashbuckle but if he had that swashbuckle in Green Bay or Kansas City - I'd think he was a fucking asshole.
I haven't been perfectly honest about my relationship with Brian Griese. It's time to come clean. You see, when I was a freshman in college, Brian Griese came into the NFL and I was a big fan. A big fucking fan. I'd only use the Denver Broncos in vieo games so I could throw with #14. I told my brother to draft him on our fantasy team and he declined: Griese went on to have a Pro Bowl season (his only one) and sort of became my adopted football player.
Here's a couple points that beg to be made:
Griese has a career completion percentage of 63.1% and a career passer rating of 84.8. Those numbers at the helm of the Chicago Bears the last five years would have made this team 3-5 wins better each season.
Symmetry. Who was the last vagabond player to slip into obscurity before being rescued by Jon Gruden's offensive scheme? He wears #20.
Our ultra-maligned tight end Desmond Clark's finest year came in 2001 when BG was his quarterback.
Ben Roethlisberger, Brad Johnson, Trent Dilfer - the non-Patriots quarterbacks to win Super Bowls with brilliant defenses. What do they have in common? Minimum risk, maximum efficiency players. Grossman may be a gunslinger but history is showing that unless you're a Hall of Fame gunslinger (Favre, Elway) it won't win you the big one.
I've said it before: I'm rooting for Grossman to perform at a high level but part of me wants feast or famine Friday night. Don't tease us Rex because the guy behind you can perform. He can play. And I think he can lead this team to the NFC Championship Game. Feast of famine, Rex. Don't tease us.
Either 6-20 and two picks.
Or 11-15, 235 yards and a score.
Everything in the middle is confusing. Everything in the middle leaves a question mark at the end of the sentence. I'm tired of waiting for a miracle man to lead the huddle. I'm tired of putting all my money on a horse I ain't seen run. I'm ready to back the favorite and the win the fucking race.
You see, Rex Grossman has been a religious savior for a team that has no faith. Compared to Henry Burris, Kordell Stewart, Shane Matthews, Kyle Orton...who wouldn't expect the first rounder to step in and change the world? But he hasn't changed the world. There's still time.
But not much. According to my calculations there's...56 hours.
And then the dream of 8 becomes the reality of 14. I love Brian Griese, you see? Not just because he wears #14 for the Chicago Bears.
#2 jeff said . . .I just hope it isn't another waste of time for the bears, like you said, we'll have to wait and see but I understand the bias, sure if he was on green bay we'd be calling him this and that but since he's a bear, we'll hold off on the name calling until we know for sure.
August 16, 2006
#3 Tom said . . .We know this season as what? It's a test. Let's pass it.
August 17, 2006
#4 Tom said . . .In my opinion Rex needs to prove he's a better QB than Kyle Orton before he can even begin to compete for the starting position against Griese. Let's face it, Grossman has never proven he's capable of playing in the NFL, something that even Kyle Orton has done. On a level playing field, Griese would be first, Orton would be second, and Grossman would be third.
The Bears organization needs to "Buck Up" and just admit that they wasted another first round pick with Grossman and just put it behind them. We (the fans) will forgive them, especially since we've got Brian Griese now. In the end, everyone will forget the long agonizing journey around the mountain when we arrive.
In my opinion, every starting QB in the NFL should earn the starting nod, and not get it just because the organization doesn't want to take responsibility for their mistake.
August 17, 2006
#5 Max said . . .In my opinion Rex needs to prove he's a better QB than Kyle Orton before he can even begin to compete for the starting position against Griese. Let's face it, Grossman has never proven he's capable of playing in the NFL, something that even Kyle Orton has done. On a level playing field, Griese would be first, Orton would be second, and Grossman would be third.
The Bears organization needs to "Buck Up" and just admit that they wasted another first round pick with Grossman and just put it behind them. We (the fans) will forgive them, especially since we've got Brian Griese now. In the end, everyone will forget the long agonizing journey around the mountain when we arrive.
In my opinion, every starting QB in the NFL should earn the starting nod, and not get it just because the organization doesn't want to take responsibility for their mistake.
August 17, 2006
#6 Jim said . . .Are you serious? I was at the Falcons game last year where Grossman replaced Orton at halftime and every single person in the stands was going nuts for a good reason. We will find out who is going to be the starter soon, but that is between Grossman and Griese; Orton is the third string QB. Grossman has proved that at this very moment he is a better quarterback than him. He started when we beat the packers and he put up 21 points against a good Carolina D.
I like Orton. I was pumped when we nabbed in the 4th round. I think he will be a damn good QB down the road, but he aint there yet.
I realize in the NFL it's what have you done for me lately, which is why there is a QB controversy, but seriously, on level playing field, Grossman would be at least 2nd string.
Personally speaking now, I still believe in Rex. I think he should be the starter. I think he should remain the starter at least through the first real game. I admit that ive been wrong sometimes about sticking with guys for to long, but I do believe everyone is panicking a bit to soon.
August 17, 2006
#7 jeff said . . .Max,
Grossman replaced Orton and arguably outplayed him that half. He then performed sub-Orton (I'm trademarking so don't try to use) through the exit of the playoffs.
This should be a wide open competition and may be after Friday night.
Do you remember the playoff game last year when Ditka went nuts about Orton v. Hutchinson. It'll happen again if the too short gun slinger isn't on target.
August 18, 2006
#8 Rob said . . .I think I know a couple people who will be tuning in tomorrow night. I just can't remember so anxiously awaiting a preseason game in my life.
August 18, 2006
#9 Max said . . .Some people say we don't need this many preseason games. This is why we do. We need to find out. I think Rex has potential to be great--and tonight along with each preseason game--we will find out a little bit more. Go Bears!
August 18, 2006
#10 Tom said . . .ok touche` to the trademarking. i like that, but lets be real here, Orton was miserable that game. There is no arguably better. Grossman got us a TD, whereas Orton did not. Plus, Orton never put up 21 points againt a defense like the Panthers. Grossman is the better QB.
I will hold off on commenting on Griese vs. Grossman (the real controversy) until after the game tonight.
August 18, 2006
#11 Tom said . . .Max - I'm not saying Grossman doesn't have talent and/or potential. He could indeed become a great QB in the NFL some day. All I'm saying is, he hasn't produced like you'd expect from a first round draft pick.
Maybe he's proven himself to you, but he certainly hasn't to me and most other Bear fans. Yes, he has a good series here and there, but he's just not consistent. And when he's under pressure, he often makes bad decisions or fumbles.
I only say Orton should be 2nd because of his season last year. Give the man his due. I admit, he had the best defense in the NFL on his side, but he looked pretty good under pressure and didn't make nearly as many bad decisions as Rex has when in the same situation. And no, he isn't a gunslinger, but a QB doesn't have to have a rifle to be successful in the NFL. You might be to young to remember, but have you ever heard of Fran Tarkenton?
Answer me this... What other QB in the NFL has won 10 games one year, and then was a 3rd string the next?
Grossman looked a little better tonight, but he still didn't prove anything to me, except maybe that he can still throw an interception. He's lucky he didn't get picked-off three times. If that impresses you, then you're easily impressed.
August 19, 2006
#12 Max said . . .Oh, one more thing…
Max – You say Grossman is SO much better than Orton that here is no comparison just because of one half of one football game. Okay, I’ll admit Rex did play better than Kyle on that particular day, but he still didn’t have a single TD pass, but he did have an interception. In reality, the Bears defense won that game by only allowing one field goal. You made it sound like Rex was the only reason the Bears won. We probably would have won that game no matter who was QB. So that argument is moot! True…
Let’s take a look at the Green Bay game that Rex played in, and remember, the Packers finished dead last in the division with a 4-12 record. Only two teams had worse records in the entire NFL. Rex went 11 for 23 in that game (47.8% completion percentage) with 1 TD pass and 1 interception. The Bears barely squeaked past them by 7 points. True…
And yes, Orton did face the Panthers defense on November 20th and he went 15 for 26 (57.7% completion percentage) with 1 TD pass and 1 interception. His passing rating was 68.8, and by the way, in case you forgot, the Bears won that game. True…
Now let’s look at Grossman’s numbers against the same Panther defense, just 8 weeks later. Rex went 17 for 41 (41.5% completion percentage) with 1 TD pass and 1 interception. His passing rating was 54.1, and in case you forgot, the Bears lost that game. True…
Max - Please don’t try to insult my intelligence with your unfounded hype. I’m sorry that I had to school you like that, but to say that there is no comparison between Rex and Kyle is idiotic! If Grossman is a better QB, it’s not by much. True…
And if you want to talk about Griese vs Grossman; Brian Griese’s lifetime record is better than any QB in Bears history. He’s in the prime of his career, and with his experience, he’s the best chance the Bears have to go all the way and win the Super Bowl. True…
August 19, 2006
#13 Tom said . . .Tom . . . one more thing??? Not true...
August 19, 2006
#14 DaBearsBiggestFanInTN said . . .What??? Are YOU SERIOUS??? Do you think I made up the statistics??? LOL!!!
Which statement is not true? Be specific! I can’t wait to hear this! LOL!!!
Max- You are one of those guys who thinks you know everything and just shoots off your mouth before you check the facts. The fact is, you don't know what you're talking about. True...
The REAL TRUTH is, every single statistic I quoted is ABSOLUTELY 100% TRUE!!!
Oh, one more thing... Saying "Not true" isn't an argument. LOL!!!
August 19, 2006
#15 max said . . .I watched that game last night.
Rex Grossman did not impress me in the least, but then again I can't remember when he haas ever impressed me. He tryed to force way too many throws into double coverage and to unopen receivers. Lucky that hge only threw 1 pick on the night. The Chargers secondary blew 3 other opportunities when the ball was put directly in their hands. I sincerely think it is time that Lovie, and every other coach on the staff give up thiere hopes on Rex Grossman. Just wake up and quit dreaming. The only thing he has proven to me is that he is not tough enough nor poised enough for the NFL, but what else can you expect from a Wolverine.
Griese was Great! Why did Lovie limit his plays last night. Granted his show was against mostly second string defense, but in comparison with Ortons pathetic attempts it displays Griese's ability to lead our team, read defenses and get it in the End Zone.
Rex Grossman said in his interview that he showed improvement and was happy with the results of moving the ball. Points are all that matter! He also said that when Jones and Benson are back and healthy it will help to establish the run game. Adrian Peterson did a great job establishing the run game!
I'd really like to see eqaul opportunities given to both Griese and Grossman in next weeks exhibition game, and I know the proof will be in the pudding!
HooRah for the Defense, Solid as always, 2nd stringers looked great. Shut the run down and a good job by the secondary adjusting well.
August 19, 2006
#16 max said . . .Jesus Tom chill out. i guess i need to be more specific. I was not saying any of the stats you said were incorrect. I know they were accurate.
Ya see you posted twice there, and the second time you started out as "Oh, one more thing," and then went on to talk about 3 or 4 other points.
So my comment was in reference to the fact that it was more than one thing. it was a joke because you had said "True..." after every paragraph. So by saying "Tom... one more thing? Not true..." was a fucking joke because you had made several points in the second post. it was an attempt lighten the mood. Apprently I wasnt clear enough on that.
I was not trying to be a know it all. it was a god damn joke. We are all Bear fans so there is no point to go off and be a prick about it. . . which you were.
I am done talking about this. I will not see this blog be reduced to stupid arguments and petty differences. I take offense to the fact you refer to me to shooting my mouth off cause i try not. And i havent seen a post where i act like a complete
know it all. If i have, i do apologize.Go Bears
August 20, 2006
#17 Tom said . . .I apologize for my language in the previous post. Uncalled for
August 20, 2006
#18 Reverenddave said . . .Max - You started this debate by attacking my opinion. And for your information, I have a right to my opinion, just like everyone else on this post. You don't have to agree with me, but from one Bear fan to another, I expected a little respect. I’m sorry, if the debate got too rough for you, but when I get punched, I tend to punch back even harder.
And then I said, "One more thing...", I was referring to the single posting that followed. You see, I had just posted one, and this was merely one more posting. It was just a figure of speech…
Either way, you are arguing semantics only because you didn't have a response to my argument. That’s fine, but please don’t continue to attack me while you’re already down on the mat. Take my advice and just stay down!
And I only accused you of shooting off your mouth because you kept attacking my opinion without any foundation or legitimate arguments, even after I backed up my argument with actual factual statistics.
And I did not take offense to your profanity. In fact, I expected it. It's frustrating to loose a public debate. I understand...
Go Bears!
August 20, 2006
#19 jeff said . . .Tom you certainly have a right to your opinion, but so does Max. While he may have started the debate you are the one that changed the tone to that of a childish argument. We are all Bears fans here, lets reserve acting like an asshole for debating Packer fans.
August 20, 2006
#20 Tom said . . .When did this become www.dawomanblog.com?
Go bears.
August 20, 2006
#21 Noah said . . .Reverenddave - I never attacked his opinion. I only defended mine. Yes, I got a little rough with Max, but he tried to make me out to be an idiot who didn't know what I was talking about. He was wrong. I don't know about you, but I don't take insults lightly.
I'm suspicious... Why did your reply and why did Max not reply? And why would a Reverend (a so called man of God) defend a complete stranger that starts arguments by insulting other blogger's opinions, uses profanity, and calls others insulting names on a public blog? I've got a feeling that you really Max using an alias. Or are you really his mommie?
August 21, 2006
#22 reverenddave said . . .That's my favorite one so far.
I can attest to the fact that the Reverend and Max are not the same person. But I like that you thought he was his mom . . .
August 21, 2006
#23 Noah said . . .We are definitely not the same person, but Id be impressed if someone came up with an alias as random as my screenname just to back himself up. The only reason I weighed in is cause I have seen a lot of blogs and message boards I formerly really enjoyed, get bogged down and lame because the comments/messages got so negative and adolescently insulting that everthing anyone said was immediately attacked.
Though considering I havent created a main entry in months it seems hard to believe but, Jeff, Noah (similarly invisible recently) and I all started this blog together. Even having just a minor stake in it just makes me overprotective.
August 21, 2006
#24 Tom said . . .Dave, you sound like a mother.
August 21, 2006
#25 jeff said . . .Reverenddave - Are you really a Reverend? If so, why weren't you offended by Max's use of God's name in vain? I'm not even religious and I was offended.
August 21, 2006
#26 Tom said . . .Jesus was a douche bag. Go Bears.
August 21, 2006
#27 Reverenddave said . . .I was just kidding. I wasn't offended.
Jesus was cool. It's the Christians who are douch bags.
August 21, 2006
#28 Tom said . . .I am a real reverend but I have to say I am in 100% agreement with you on that point Tom.
August 22, 2006
#29 jeff said . . .Dave - I came to this blog to offer my opinions and hear the opinions of fellow Bear fans, not to be attacked for my point of view. I thought that the whole idea of a blog was to hear many different points of view. What good is a blog where everyone has the same opinion?
After I was attacked, I defended my opinion with hard facts and statistics. My attacker then resorted to profanity and childish name-calling. You say you don't want this blog to become a place where bloggers are attacked, yet you defend a person who attacked another blogger. Then, you call me an asshole and childish, and not the person who attacked me and called me a childish name.
You may not realise it, but you are actually promoting attacks on fellow bloggers and childish name-calling.
Maybe you want all bloggers to have the same opinion. That sounds like a pretty dull blog to me. We'll, you don't have to worry about me having different opinions than your blogger friends anymore because this is my final posting. I will not be back.
Noah - Thanks for the support. We had a good laugh together. Good luck. Go Bears!
August 22, 2006
#30 Noah said . . .Tom, you're not going anywhere. keep posting...
August 22, 2006
#31 Sanchez said . . .Yeah, Tom, we want you here. I like the arguments, we need a little more spirit around here.
August 22, 2006
#32 jeff said . . .Grossman will keep his job as long they are winning or his stats are better than what the bosses think Grieses' would be.
So did Max win?
Go Bears!
August 24, 2006
#33 Max said . . .Nobody wins if Tom stops posting. His posts were sincere and well-informed. I think it'd be unfortunate to lose him and I can see Tom v. Max being dabearsblog's equivalent of Yanks/Sox.
August 24, 2006
I didnt win. I would like Tom to keep posting because this is a blog for all Bear fans. And come Sept. 10 we will all be united in our love for the Bears. (and hate for the Packers)
August 24, 2006
Here at DaBearsBlog, you are free to kill us or the Bears as you so wish. You are not free, however, to be an asshole. So if you spew racism or ill-meaning foul language (cursing about football is just fine) or anything of that ilk, your comments ain't gonna last long, jerk.