A year ago, I harped on the need for the Chicago Bears to acquire a tight end in the draft and spent two days watching ESPN in April screaming, "How many fucking kick returners do we need?" (I mean, really, who drafts Devin Hester?)
Without further adieu...
SAY GOODBYE TO JUSTIN GAGE
There are very few players who've worn the burnt orange I hate more. He catches 10% of the balls that hit his hands and fumbles 90% of the balls he does catch. He's a liability on special teams. Farewell.
LEAVE THE OUTSIDE BOYS ALONE
Look at how this corps of receivers is built. They have a true #1 deep threat in Berrian. A veteran possession receiver in Moose. A playmaking slot guy in Rash. A fourth receiver with #1 talent in Bradley. This group has the ability to not only be successful but be one of the best units in the game. For the first time in 20 years, wide receiver is not a need for the Chicago Bears.
FIND A SPEEDY TIGHT END - MAYBE GREG OLSEN
The problem with the Bears tight ends is they're all the same player - good blockers with decent speed. Des Clark is a great blocker but he doesn't possess the kind of ability that scares defenses into protecting the middle of the field. A player like Miami's Greg Olsen may be avilable at the tail end of the first round.
Final Thoughts: The Bears need to solve the quarterbacking situation. Otherwise Midway, Pissed and I could be the wideouts and it wouldn't make a lick of difference. The tools are in place for a great passing game. Get someone to throw them the ball.
#2 jdawg said . . .First!
Always wanted to say that.
February 8, 2007
#3 HewieCanDoie said . . .I'm not convinced of Bradley and Davis. I don't know how good their routes are and what kind of separation they get and if they go where they're supposed to. Berrian does -- straight down the field as fucking fast as his legs can carry him. I have no doubt Moose is in the right place at the right time.
Jeff, I don't see the Bears doing any of the things you suggested at QB. I'm not saying I don't agree with them or that I'm not pissed at Rex for the 4th quarter, but Angelo will not be trading draft picks for other players. If he trades a draft pick it will be in exchange for two draft picks.
If anybody's seriously considering Garcia I will remind them of the 2005 game at Detroit, overtime I believe it was. Garcia, playing his millionth game, saw pressure up the middle. What did he do? Why he put up a beautiful three pointer that hit nothing but the bottom of Peanut's net. game over.
February 8, 2007
#4 The Duke said . . .You guys need Lleyton Hewitt in the QB spot.
Vicht!
February 8, 2007
#5 Pissed off said . . .Can't wait to see Hester line up for some offensive plays next year too. Tell me Turner isn't drooling to get him into his playbook.
February 8, 2007
#6 mikebdot said . . .Though you know I disagree with your QB take, look at the WRs numbers last season when Orton threw them the ball, now look at their numbers with Rex this year. Qutie an improvement huh!
All of you knowing my take on Rex, I'm glad he's gonna be the starter next year, and that the Bears wont pursue anyone else. I'm just sorry for all of you who dislike him cuz its going to be a tough season for you to watch the man lead our team that you hate while I enjoy every minute of it cuz I like his game and think he will be far better next year.
February 8, 2007
#7 mikebdot said . . .PO'd: Before you relish in our pain, I'll have you know that nothing would please me more than Grossman playing lights out all season. It's not as though I would despair. However, if he has 3 or 4 bad games in the first 8 I will be mildly upset if we don't try out Griese...if we don't though, I will still root for him. Booing is no good unless it's painfully obvious he is doomed to repeat his SB performance over and over...
Even though they went to the SB four years in a row, I don't want to be in the position as Jim Kelly's Bills...talk about blue balls...geez...
February 8, 2007
#8 Pissed off said . . .Interesting coaching moves:
http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3048
We need some help at D-line getting pressure...hopefully the next guy will help out...
February 8, 2007
#9 jdawg said . . .Can I just say again how much I love Rex Grossman and want to make sweet love to him?
February 8, 2007
#10 jeff said . . .I can't imagine that Hester's not in on some O plays next season, if for no other reason than to freak the defense out. Just running him in a post pattern at full speed could clear out half the opposing D's secondary and maybe a linebacker.
And Turner better get a lot less predictable in his play calling. I knew what they were going to run last Sunday so imagine what the Colt's defense was thinking.
Now that the steam has quit coming out of my ears I'm less worried about Grossman. The game should slow down for him next year like it does for most starters in their second full season. As I've said before, sick Rusty Jones on his ass, legs and ankles. Before his injuries he was very shifty in the pocket and could throw on the run. Except for the St. Louis game he acted like the other side of the LofS was radioactive.
February 9, 2007
#11 jeff said . . .Pissed Off...you can't compare people to kyle orton. the kid didn't belong in the nfl.
February 9, 2007
#12 Max said . . .as for davis and bradley...this was the first complete season at wideout for both...i was quite impressed...
February 9, 2007
#13 jdawg said . . .Rashied Davis. . . the man has will and makes big plays when given the chance. Bradley has shown what he is capable of when healthy.
The wide receiver postition is not one that the Bears should be focusing on early in the draft.
I like Des. He did well when the ball was thrown his way. The man deserved to start over Jermey Shockey. All he did was complain and bitch all year.
And in reference to my comment yesterday, "blowing goats" means throwing more interceptions than Td's and/or fumbling the ball away, and/or losing games we should win.
I will continue to use my "wayne's world" comments because i feel it is what wayne and garth would want. After all they are from Aurora, which is a suburb of Chicago . . . say it with me now, Ah-rora. Excellent
February 9, 2007
#14 craig said . . .Davis had his moments, but of course he was mainly a 3rd down receiver. Bradley didn't do much for me, except in the Jets game on one play. He didn't seem to get on the field that often, even when healthy.
This will be an interesting draft. We made it to the SB without two pro-bowlers on defense. The offense ranked in the middle of the NFL, up from 31st. The only difference-maker we may lose is Briggs and we don't have any idea what Dusty D is bringing to the table, other than fond farewells for Scott and Boone.
This will be Lovie's fourth year. First year: 5-11; second: 11-6; third: 15-4 and a trip to the big game.
I like the trajectory.
February 9, 2007
#15 War Hammer said . . .Yeah, I think I agree with the receiver bit - Moose is definitely a solid vet, and I like how most of the time he goes out and snatches the ball. Berrian, we've seen what he does. Most of what I've seen from Davis and Bradley, I've liked. At least when Bradley's not blowing out a knee or an ankle. Overall solid, though, and I think three of the four should show marked improvement by next year.
At tight end, I do like what Des has brought into the mix at times, but you're right, we need a guy who's scary. A guy who the defense has to account for.
I've tried very hard all season not to hate on Rex. On the one hand, taken as a whole his first starting season wasn't bad, even when compared to some of the greats. What's worrisome is just how manically inconsistent he's been, how extreme are his ups and downs. Even in big-time situations, we've seen both: he's hit big throws, but he's also looked utterly ridiculous trying to do something as simple as take a snap. I wouldn't be upset if he started next season, and even through the year, because I expect improvement. But I would definitely be glad is some serious competition was brought in, too.
February 9, 2007
#16 Kent said . . .By people saying they doubt Rex Grossman's talents doesn't mean they are "hating" on him. Some people just understand how important the QB position is, and they understand this guy isn't the one any championship team wants taking the snaps.
February 9, 2007
#17 benny j said . . .I agree on Justin Gage. He really hasn't shown me much during his time in Chicago. I like TE as a need position and hopefully we get Greg Olsen or Zach Miller from Arizona St. I think the Bears also need to pick up a big time safety, maybe in free agency and DT depth. Depth at LB is also a need, especially a speedy LB that can spell Hunter Hillenmeyer (or eventually replace him) O-Line depth is also a need too.
February 9, 2007
#18 mikebdot said . . .i, for one, would love to see you play WR jeff
February 9, 2007
#19 Pissed off said . . .Max: Just wanted more ammo if attacked by PO'd again...
Does the "blow goats" criteria have to include all of those happenings? What if he throws 12 INTs, 10 TDs , has four lost fumbles and they go 8-0 in their first 8 games because of defense/special teams/running game coming through on his off games?
Just trying to get measurable criteria...
Sounds like we're just going to have be patient...let the game come to us...one game at a time...take one for the team...happy to be here...
I like (the?) War Hammer. Especially when I play D&D...
February 9, 2007
#20 Pissed off said . . .Agree mike, if he has a few stinkers I think we need to do something as well. As I've said I think he will be fine but if he struggles we need to go in a different direction (Griese).
#8 was obviously not me, I'm assuming it was Philly.
So you admit Jeff that Rex belongs in the NFL? I thought you were rooting for our QB to suck. Hmmm...Orton had more games under his belt going into this year than Rex did and he's in the NFL.
Lets not forget Des had a career year thanks to Rex.....he's not all bad.
War hammer, though your comment doesnt deserve a response...I disagree, Rex was in his FIRST full year and with experience and coaching he will be a fine NFL QB that will probably be better in the big game than the likes of plenty who've played in it. Also I dont think you can put a blanket statement out there that "nobody wants him taking snaps" If that were true he wouldnt be in the NFL and he certainly wouldnt be our starting QB who helped lead us to the SB.
Since I dont run this blog I cant put out a headline post like Jeff but I will discuss all of our position needs in a post sometime today.
February 9, 2007
#21 Megan said . . .BTW Megan...I tried your Jello creation, its fantastic, got that extra little kick, who knew Jello could get better, I gonna try tons of different flavors/sodas.
February 9, 2007
#22 Phil from SATX said . . .PO'd that was Nicole's Jello Creation, but I'm sure she appreciates the nod.
I make a helluva nacho cheese dip, ( I call it "white trash dip" cuz it's made with velveeta)
Guys, I am learning so much (much like I did during the off-season last year) is it okay if I just read and not necessarliy respond? I am an idiot when it comes to understanding who is out there/available/position need (my fav is well.. better not say). AND, if I post idiotic questions, try not to give me too much crap. PO'd can get pretty harsh.
Midway, have you detoxified yet? Sounds like you might need some Jello Creation and Nacho Cheese dip! at the very least..
February 9, 2007
#23 Phil from SATX said . . .I agree with Max about Rashied, and with pretty much everybody about our top two still being what we need. Creating separation is key, but just as important has to be the hands and whether they catch catchable balls. I think our entire receiver corps (excluding Gage) has been absolutely fantastic in this area - if you could watch how many drops the Cowboys had this year, including the supposed best in the game, it would sicken you. Our guys all have great hands, and notably Rashied, who never seems to drop anything.
There is always an issue about interconnecting parts - how much does the QB play in the receivers numbers. I thought in particular Moose did a great job this year of making catches on poorly thrown balls. Not to get back into the QB discussion, but I think that if we had a quarterback who was more improvisational, or if Rex could be taught to be better at this, catches would rise dramatically. Throughout this year, many many passing downs were wasted because Rex had pressure and would throw the ball away. Of course this year we lauded that, as a thrown away ball meant no big mistakes. However, when you think of the improvisational quarterbacks (and not to go straight to the top but even invoking lesser names like Matt Hasselback in the divisional game, Jeff Garcia in the latter half of the season and Tony Romo in the latter half of this season), they were consistently able to make plays when subjected to pressure - while Rex almost never was. During this season, after the first five games, with Rex, there were typically 4 options under intense pressure: 1) throw it away safely; 2) fumble; 3) throw an interception; or 4) take a sack. We can probably count on one hand, and at most two, the number of successful plays Rex made during the season in throwing situations when under intense pressure.
If you had some reasonable success rate on completing those plays, it would have huge impact not only on offensive production, but on how opposing defenses played us.
I think Bradley is a great receiver who appears at this point to be so injury prone you just can't count on him. Des Clark did pretty much everything asked of him this year (the last drop of the Super Bowl notwithstanding, totally surprised me that he lost that one, but I didn't care at that point, it was over).
Don't forget we also have two guys who should be catching a lot more balls than they do in TJ and Benson, just with better play calling involved instead of the stupid way Turner was using them in the second half.
February 9, 2007
#24 Starbuck said . . .I'm going to go ahead and add that I agree with PO's point about the receivers' numbers going way up this year thanks to Rex. I'm also going to take this opportunity to step back and thank Rex for all the great moments this year, because there were many moments of incredible excitement thanks to him and his arm and balls (both thrown and swung). Like others who have posted before me while calling for more competition, my change in heart on Rex from the SB was only because I no longer believed he will be able to take us all the way next year - but I'm still rooting for him, and for whoever lines up at QB. But he is really going to have to change into that improvisational QB we need - he's going to have to get better in a hurry. And if I have previously made this comment, I apologize, but it is amazing how much better the Cowboys' offensive line looked when Romo got in instead of the immobile Bledsoe. The same would be true with the Bears. Again with the interconnecting parts.
February 9, 2007
#25 Chi Town Delight said . . .I am still not sold on the entire receiving corps. Berrian is fast and is a deep threat, but is still young. Moose is still good, but is getting old - he still has a year left on his #1 receiver salary(which he is not), so he won't be going anywhere.
Davis and Bradley are question marks. Neither is a true impact player and are frankly, expendable. However, the Bears have pressing needs at other places, so they both may be back here next year.
IMO even though the Bears need a tight end, the Bears biggest concern is there offensive line. Since they have a late 1st round pick, I would not be surprised if they pick up an O lineman. Re-signing Ruben Brown is not the answer. He is getting old and will take up too much cap space. IMO, the Bears O Line will not perform as well next year as it did this year. In 2 years time, it will be a liability. Angelo has used free agents to plug the line and it got them to a superbowl. It is now time to pick some through the draft to get them back there. Otherwise, the offense will go in the tank faster than Tank pled guilty to his probation violation.
February 9, 2007
#26 War Hammer said . . .We pretty much have the right team in place except for QB. I would start Griese just because he is less mistake prone and would be much more productive than Gross-arm. Rex just doesn't seem too coordinated and his footwork is terrible. If Rex plays like shit and the team is still winning due to big defensive plays, I think he needs to be benched. If he comes out lame again this year but the defense keeps winning games for us, he needs to be benched. This is a Super Bowl caliber team on all points except the QB. I know that Pissed Off will insult me and probably tell me i'm not as smart as him and what not....but one thing I do know is that I'm not backing a QB who may be the worst ever to play in a Super Bowl.
February 9, 2007
#27 HewCanDoie said . . .I agree Chi Town. I think it's an insult to the intelligence of the Bears organization to say that they are going into next year with Rex pinned as the starter. They will certainly explore the free agent market and look for an upgrade. They know how good this team is aside from the quarterback position. Even if they went with Garcia I like their chances. I mean, he did a nice job in Philly but let's beal realistic, they started using Brian Westbrook much more when McNabb went down, which tells me Garcia was the product of a more balanced offense. The Bears already have a balanced offense, and with a guy like Garcia back there, well you know he won't make nearly as many remedial mistakes that Rex makes.
February 9, 2007
#28 BgMatt said . . .No doubt about it. They can't possibly believe they are okay at the QB position. Even if nobody is picked up in free agency, I think Griese deserves an opportunity at the number 1 spot. Not that I think Griese is Joe Montana...but I do think Rex Grossman is Ryan Leaf but smaller.
February 9, 2007
#29 Midway Monster said . . .I totally disagree....we must stick with Rex and his 72.4 career rating. I think he can be the next Tom Brady. The only thing he needs to do is grow 3-4 inches, develop a brain, and grow bigger hands. After all, the coaches can do that for Rex can't they?
February 9, 2007
#30 Pissed off said . . .
Megan:The simple answer is: nope.
Apparently the fist thing I have to do in order to be rehabilitated and enter the real world again is to acknowledge that I have a problem. The Dr's say that my problem is realizing that 'the Bears play just a game and it's not the most important thing in one's life'. P-u-u-f-t! Isn't that absurd!
I believe we've reached an uncompromising impass and I might just decide to break out of here after Sunday... you know what Sunday is right? Its the one week anniversary of "that day".
Midway
(still in rehab but considering breaking out)
February 9, 2007
#31 BgMatt said . . .You guys who come on here to rip rex its your opinion and I'm not going to rip you for it. I know you will post here once or twice a year and then leave so I dont care how inept your comments may be cuz you will only make them once or twice all year.
They do "possibly" think they are OK at QB Hewie, thats why their not shopping. You guys havent seen this rant I've saved but I'll post it for you to see even though you probably wont be back here again:
Those of you who want Rex cut or off the team or shipped to Zimbabwae because he is not an NFL QB, he fumbles too much or throws to many interceptions......I have this to say: Do you not remember the past Decade+ of QB carusel (sp)? He is by far the best QB, with the most potential that we have had since Harbaugh. Lets let him get some experience. THIS WAS HIS FIRST FULL SEASON! Do you not realize that or are you just to pig-headed that you wont accept that, you want Joe Montana to start for the Bears and you want him NOW! Well it aint going to happen. So if we cut him we can have Griese or Orton or Carr lead the team only to be throwing them under the bus by mid season. What an ideal situation...oh yeah we've already been doing that for 13 years.
BTW, when will they start shopping free agency (theres nothing out there by the way) Warhammer? Garcia is too old and lets not forget he has been a backup, he had a nice run. If Grossmans 5 game stretch that started the season was the same one that ended Garcias season you wouldnt be ripping him.
February 9, 2007
#32 Chi Town Delight said . . .I think they haven't been shopping because free agency hasn't started yet PO'd.....I know you don't think they need quarterback help, but just don't be surprised and crying when Rex's tiny ass is on the bench as the emergency QB like he deserves.
February 9, 2007
#33 War Hammer said . . .I know it's unrealistic to think like this and i'm not expecting it to happen, but imagine how great this team would look if the Bears swiped McNabb in a trade. Like I said, I know this won't happen or at very best it's unlikely, but I have to say I'd be the happiest MoFo in Chicago if it did happen!
February 9, 2007
#34 War Hammer said . . .If that happened PO'd would have to seek pshyciatric counseling because he wouldn't be able to handle his man-interest sitting the bench.
February 9, 2007
#35 Phil from SATX said . . .***psychiatric
February 9, 2007
#36 Phil from SATX said . . .I'm a little confused - why would Philly give up McNabb? Understand that it may be just a rumor, but why would they ever consider that?
Also, has there been any true indications yet coming from Bears Central as to whether they are considering free agent QBs, or is PO'd right and this is just us and Peter King on HBO and possibly some wishful thinking?
One comment on David Carr - I would be worried that he's never won before. I'm thinking the Bears would want to pick someone who has demonstrated success, and success and the Houston Texans are complete oxymorons (actually Texans are just morons period).
February 9, 2007
#37 Midway Monster said . . .Of course I meant the Houston Texans football team, not the residents of this fine state.
February 9, 2007
#38 Phil from SATX said . . .Whats that War Hammer??!! Did I hear PO is coming to visit!!!!
--Midway--
February 9, 2007
#39 Pyrobob said . . .Hilarious Midway - holding my breath over here. Methinks I'll be seeing the word Zimbabwe pretty soon, and that will be the pleasant part.
February 9, 2007
#40 Pissed off said . . .Ok, Ok I give up- the Rex detractors win!
But I want Brett Favre to be our starting QB.
Just imagine it. With our D and ST's (O line wouldn't matter much since we have BF under the center), then we can own the NFC, go to the Superbowl in '08 and win it all!
Then Brett can retire with a SB ring, the '85 Bears become a fond memory and the GB & Chicago rivarly is quelled forever!Ahh, Utopia you are a fine mistress
February 9, 2007
#41 Pissed off said . . .LOL...I'm not too worried about Rex sitting on the bench to start the year. Lets get Favre as our QB, maybe he can lead us to the promised land, oh wait Rex put up better numbers than Favre, OK who else can we get?
February 9, 2007
#42 Pissed off said . . .In the words of Christian Laettner....."loser, loser, loser, loser....winner."
February 9, 2007
#43 JonDingle said . . .Dont you fair weather, only blog on here when we lose, Bear hating blogers have something else to do?
February 9, 2007
#44 Coxy said . . .Never been a blogger before but I've checked this site from time to time and I cant believe the stuff I'm hearing about Rex. He just led us to the Super Bowl, I know Im in the minority as Bears fans go around here in the Chicago area but I think this kid has a shot to be pretty good. Lets take a deep breath and on to the SB next year.
February 9, 2007
#45 Coxy said . . .PyroBob are you a communist? I hope that was a joke.
Pretty interesting how Sexy Rexy is living it up in Vegas with some Playmates. Probably would be advisable to be at Olin's place taking snaps, or at the arcade throwing the football through the holes in the padded walls.
February 9, 2007
#46 jdawg said . . .Well, Pissed Off, it seems JonDingle has been added to our Rex fan club.
February 9, 2007
#47 Phil from SATX said . . .The Bears will not get Carr, let's get that straight. He's due 4.5 mil next year (maybe more). If we bring in Carr we can't afford Grease. If we cut Grease we take a $4 mil cap hit. That adds up to $9.5 mil for Carr. Ain’t gonna happen.
As far as Garcia is concerned, and I've mentioned this before, doesn't anybody remember the OT win against Detroit when he threw the game-winning TD pass -- to peanut? He was getting pressure up the middle from Boone and threw a wobbling duck. Sound familiar?
I'd love to get McNabb but I'd also love a million billion dollars to fall out of the sky into my open arms.
February 9, 2007
#48 mikebdot said . . .Coxy - great suggestions both, I would add a summer internship at Cirque du Soleil to become accomplished on stilts, and he needs to send his agent to the company that makes the giant foam fingers to see if the factory can be quickly retofitted to include a whole hand. (I guess he'd need two.)
Voice over... "We can rebuild him..."
February 9, 2007
#49 Max said . . .jdawg: If a million billion dollars fell from the sky onto you, you would totally be dead...unless of course they made a one million billion dollar bill just for you and it was recognized as legal tender...
February 9, 2007
#50 thegreenmenace said . . .I just wanna say that this blog is by far and away the highlight of my day. You guys are great. Go RASHIED
February 9, 2007
#51 Pissed off said . . .WHAT?! How are we talking about wide receivers and not mentioning the overpaid Muhsin Muhammad? I mean really folks, can you justify paying him 9.3 million? He had one great season before becoming a Bear, can we risk losing players like Tommie, Lance and God knows who else while over paying Muhammad, just because we like screaming Mooooooooosoe?! By the way what the hell happened to Gage this season?
the spreadsheet
http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=p7cT6BHYEYHaCnb9PB3ggTQFebruary 9, 2007
#52 Phil from SATX said . . .Great point jdawg, agree with all of it, especially the money falling out of the air. We must be realistic and thats what your post was.
Gage sucks, thats what happened, he dropped everything or fumbles everything he got his hands on so he never saw the field. Maybe next year he'll go play with Wade in Tennessee, what a sweet WR combo of ex-Bears, Gage and Wade.
Coxy, I guess Jondingle is in.
February 9, 2007
#53 thegreenmenace said . . .Totally agree with you there PO'd, and it points to how much better this management group is at evaluating talent. What horrible busts those guys were. It's not too late to agree with you, is it?
February 9, 2007
#54 Pissed off said . . .Am I seriously alone in thinking Moose has got to go (at least be traded)?
February 9, 2007
#55 Phil from SATX said . . .Never too late to agree....on the whole...look at our team compared to others in the leauge....we won 11 games a year ago and first round bye, this year we won 13 and the #1 seed, the team is good at evaluating talent and plenty of other teams are worse off then we are. We've had some bad years but look at the bright side, we are considered one of the elite teams in NFL year in and year out now.
Regarding Moose I dont think we could get any good trade value for him becuase of his contract.....plus I think he's a good security blanket for whatever QB you may want in there. I do think we overpaid him when we got him but we were desperate and I think he makes players like Berrian, Rash and Bradley better by being double teamed, plus you know he's a good locker room and morale guy. I thnk we have no choice but to keep him.
February 9, 2007
#56 mikebdot said . . .It may be overpaying but think of what it would be like without him... We wasted him on Orton in his first year, and he performed this year when given catchable (and many times uncatchable) balls. Send him on the right kinds of routes and get him the ball and he'll make the catches. He'll never be a Steve Smith or Marvin Harrison but he's still one of the best and physically fills a role that no one else does on the Bears. Hell yes we keep Moose and pray that he doesn't age noticeably, cause he is getting up there.
February 9, 2007
#57 Max said . . .greenmenace: No, you're not alone. He had 1405 yds and 16 TD when he was 31...that was a good season (with Delhomme throwing him the ball in smith's absence), but I think he's overrated.
I also don't agree that Rex's throws to him were the problem. Even the pass that was thrown SLIGHTLY behind him (as I explained it needed to be) was picked off...
February 9, 2007
#58 Pissed off said . . .I agree on keeping Moose. He has dropped some passes the past 2 years but he is always covered by the opposing teams number 1 cover guy so that frees up everyone else.
We overpaid him but even if we could trade him, we wouldnt be getting his worth back. He is getting to up there in age for teams to take him long term and his contract is to big. Keep Moose. He may not make a lot of great plays, but he makes those receivers around him better.
And I held the Gage flag for a long time, but i do believe he may have worn out his welcome in Chicago and in my heart. I still love Wade though as a receiver (not as a punt returner). I hope he does well for Tennessee.
February 9, 2007
#59 thegreenmenace said . . .I could write a novel and this will still be long but heres my take on positions in a nutshell.
QB: Duh, you know what I think
RB: I want to keep TJ if only for one more year before the reigns are handed to Ced for good. I like McKie, AP, etc.
WR & TE: Get rid of Gage, regarding Moose, see post #54. Another year of experience and getting comfortable with Rexy for Rash, Berrian and Bradley, I like it, lets remember too how young those three are, they will all be stars some day. Berrian's already got a taste of it this year. Keep Des but please look for one in the draft or free agency too. Gabe Reid, Gilmore and Des isnt exactly a superstar trio.
O-Line: I think we need to pay Ruben but only for a year or two extension, he's still good. The rest seems OK, they dominated a lot of the year but I dont see any real big problems for the next two years or so. Maybe get one guy in the draft. St. Clair, Garza, Miller, Olin, Tait and Metcalf are all under 30 except Tait.
D-Line: Love it, especially with Harris back and the emergence of Anderson. Throw in Tank, Brown and Wale, you might have the best front 4 in football with a backup or two to spare. It would behoove us to draft a DT to compliment Harris and Tank but then again maybe this Dvoracek kid will be good and we can use the pick for something else.
Linebackers: Pay Briggs! We already have the best MLB in football. Hunter is good, I think he'd start on a bunch of other teams. If we cant pay Briggs we obviously have a void to fill thru draft or free agency and none of the backups do it for me but maybe they will emerge since they never see the field. We just dont know abou em.
CBs: We need to keep what we have, I like Tillman more than Vasher but I want both. Manning is a great nickel guy. I was disappointed that Wesley didnt play more. I thought he was real solid with Carolina. No major change needed.
Safety. I've addressed this too already....I dont care if we cut/trade Mike Brown, I know that may be sacrelige but he never plays, hurt every year. With a healthy McGowan, Harris Manning, this group is young and can be a force for years.
K: Good as Gould, kid is clutch
P: Sexiest man needs to be consistent in playoffs but I like him, always a good net.
Overall, as you can see, I dont recommend a lot of changes, we went to the super bowl man, a few tweaks here and there, we'll be back next year.
February 9, 2007
#60 Pissed off said . . .I generally agree with pissed off, but I do see that we will need to dig deep to keep things the same, and that digging is going to require deciding who to keep and who to let go. I am more interested in keeping our D intact than any major money on offense.
February 9, 2007
#61 Pissed off said . . .Agreed, we need to keep defense intact. I know one of the big things coming into this year was that we were returning all 22 starters and of course many reserves....I hope that can be this way again this year.
February 9, 2007
#62 thegreenmenace said . . .I'm preparing to go home after work and watch the super bowl again, I just cant let go. I hope its not too brutal for me already knowing the outcome. I just really was so pumped after Hesters return and then Mannings pick, I thought we had it man. Just think back to that moment when you knew Hester was gone, your like...this is one of the greatest moments ever.
February 9, 2007
#63 JonDingle said . . .Honestly I was jumping up and down on the couch with 7 other Bears fans, it was bliss, as happy as I have been all season. But then someone mentioned how the Ohio state game started like that and we all began to worry about the Bears being over confident.
February 9, 2007
#64 Phil from SATX said . . .That moment was great at the time. I cant quite put into words how sweet it was.
February 9, 2007
#65 Phil from SATX said . . .I completely agree - screaming as soon as the game started - it was a dream come true (imagine if you were Hester and actually had had that dream - now we're talking completely surreal). And I'll never forget that moment, although at the time you knew we had miles to go. The Manning pick, the great Rex pass for a TD - at 14-6 we were going to win this game. I think the only reason I wasn't more depressed by the end was because after that point absolutely nothing good happened unless you count the missed field goal - I was hoping, but knew it was just a hope, that that would give us momentum going into half time but was far from convinced, and actually was already completely scared for the defense, it was obvious they had to be dog tired by half time. And offense had just shut down. So at least the Bears prepared me for the end of the game, and by the time Rex threw his pick 6, I was pretty much expecting something like that. As in, even though we were close, it just didn't feel like our game.
Looks like we're going to get to keep Rivera, I'm quite sure he will not call the same game again and give us nothing to cheer about on series after series - kind of reminded me of Vince Tobin defense at that point - remember how much the Bears hated "read and react." Come to think of it, Rivera played his best years under Tobin. But I still hope like hell he's staying. Don't forget fellas, WE MADE IT TO THE SUPER BOWL. Still way way way better than not being there at all.
February 9, 2007
#66 Phil from SATX said . . .I'm sure many were like me, I kept the TV on long enough just to see Dungy and Lovie hug, then shut it off, and I have yet to see any of the postgame celebration. Today Steve Czaben (sp?) had on the Colts corner with the last name of David, seemed like a great kid, but man was it hard to listen to. We got to get us some of that. Thought it was going to be this year...
February 9, 2007
#67 Midway Monster said . . .Here's an end-of-year housekeeping question. How long do we keep these games on Tivo? I still have the Green Bay game on - why??? In case PIB comes to visit? I can't burn to DVD, and I somehow lost the Rams game with the 2 Hester runbacks. Whattaya think? I don't ever want to delete the championship game though - that shit was too perfect.
February 9, 2007
#68 ohh noo said . . .BREAKING NEWS.....
The NFL announced today that for financial reasons, they need to
eliminate one team from the league. So they've decided to combine
the Green Bay Packers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and form one team,
causing many layoffs but saving millions of dollars in costs.This new team will be known as the TAMPACKS.
Unfortunately, they're only good for one period and have no second
string....................Stay tuned for further details
--Midway--
(in ReHab)February 9, 2007
#69 PyroBob said . . .I hope everyone knows that grossmen isn't going anywhere. Give him another year, as far as garcia and mcnabb forget it. Garcia is a student of the West coast offense and is 37. Mcnabb not in this lifetime, his contract is huge. Maybe getting to the big dance is all the motivation your need to get back their and win.grossmen has my vote. Running the ball and playing great defense is a formula that is proven to win championships. The defense didn't look all the special with the time of possesion 21 minutes to 48.
February 10, 2007
#70 PyroBob said . . .Ok, ok, they f#@k you in tht drive thru!
So what we need to do is dump Moose, Griese, Rex and what the hell, Orton too
Then we use all the dough we got left to go get Favre and Garcia and we would be the KINGS of the NFL!
woo hoo!!February 10, 2007
#71 thegreenmenace said . . .Comrade Coxy, da!
February 10, 2007
#72 bench rex said . . .I just wanted emphasize what PISSED OFF said. It seems all the Bears fans who started watching the Bears after the made the playoffs are easy to dismiss player with talent that have areas to improve. I think PO says it best, look at the caliber of QBs we have had, if you have lived (and died) through that you would appreciate what Rex has the potential to be. I have my Kramer, Salaam, Harbrough etc to remind me of where we were so I say give the kid a chance. I respect the opinion of those who have been there and still don't like Rex, but there is respect Rex has gained from people like me after all he has been through by the fans and press.
February 10, 2007
#73 Chi Town Delight said . . .P.O WHY DONT TOU WATCH THE SB AGAIN AND MAYBE YOU MIGHT GAT A CLUE TO THE FACT THAT YOUR BOY TOY GROSSMAN HAS NO TALENT AND IS LIKLEY TO NEVER HAVE ANY TALENT GOING TO THE SB AND LOSING IS LIKE KISSING YOUR SISTER IT IS DISCUSTING AND IT WOULD BE SO BAD BUT YOU HAVE REX KEEP SAYING WE CAN FIX IT WEEK AFTER WEEK IS REDICULOUS BUT SINCE YOU ARE SUCH A KNOW IT ALL MAYBE YOU SHOULD GO WITH REX TO ZIMBABWE AND WHEN YOUR NOT MAKING SWET MAN LOVE TO HIM TEACH HIM TO TAKE A SNAP , SCRAMBLE , READ A DEFENSE , AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST HOW TO KEEP FROM WETTING HIMSELF WHEN HE IS UNDER PRESSURE AND WHEN HAVE THAT DONE SEND HIM BACK BUT YOU STAY AND TRY TO SOLVE ALL THEIR PROBLEMS
February 10, 2007
#74 The War Hammer said . . .Agreed. They better put all there money into defense if they want any shot of being competitive again. Unless of course, they want to change quarterbacks, then they could be much more flexible with what money they do have.
February 10, 2007
#75 The War Hammer said . . .I think he's had his chance. The Bears talent wise were the best team in football this year. There is no way they would have lost that Super Bowl if they had an avergage QB taking the snaps. Unfortunately, the person taking the snaps is below average if that, and probably couldn't start for an Arena team. But that's alright, all you Rex lovers can keep saying "the kid's got potential." What potential do you see? The potential for him to make more mistakes? Maybe he's just not that good. But, a true homer will never say anything bad about the starting QB, but an objective realist will tell you he can't play in this league.
February 10, 2007
#76 PyroBob said . . .And you ppl who blame the defense amaze me. The offense made no attempt to hold the ball when they decided to pass with Rex Chokeman early in the game.
February 10, 2007
#77 Frank said . . .(more lucid this morming)
Well the debate rages on.
The Rex keepers vs. the Rex killers.Since objectivity seems to be a recurring suggestion; this idea is the most logical:
No matter which side of this debate thinks they are right, the Bears COACHING STAFF and MANAGEMENT will have the final say.
So go ahead and rant and rave, name call and put down; IT JUST DOESN'T MATTER!
To those who make a habit of this behavior while HIDING behind a handle on this blog; what does that say about YOU?!
Btw- I am in the KEEP REX camp. As are many of his team mates.February 10, 2007
Bill said.....
"If we get called for penalty that isn't a penalty, like NE did, I'll say that too. (Face-guarding IS NOT A PENALTY. Look it up - there have been MANY commnets on that the last couple of weeks!) If we suffer a key injury that limits our ability to exucute a phase of the game we need to win, Ill say that too.Now - will the anti-Bears posters do the same if the Bears win? We can talk back and forth all we want - the outcome is not influenced by anything we say. Will you admit it if Rex has one of his high rated games (he's had 7, you know)? If we run for 160 yards and control the clock - will you admit that you coudl have seen that coming (Colts gave up 4.00 yds per carry in the post-season, so if we run 40 times....)? If the D is up to the task and holds Manning below average, will you admit it?"
Well, its been over a week.....
The way I see it, the Colts O-line dominated the Bears D-line, Urlacher was taken out of the box chasing the long routes, and the Colts ran right through that Bear's defense. By doing this, the Colts ate the clock and forced Grossman to throw up some desperate passes and rush the offense.
February 13, 2007
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.