Brian Griese is starting at quarterback for the Chicago Bears in Detroit. Same running back. Same wide receivers. Same offensive line. Lovie Smith says the problems on offense were not about “one guy� but he only made one change. Sexy out. BG in.
But Sunday won’t be about the signal caller. Last weekend the Detroit Lions defense gave up college football numbers to a struggling Philadelphia Eagles team ready to trade their quarterback. Some made the argument to let Rex play and get healthy against Detroit. I make the opposite argument: let the new guy get off to a good start. He will on Sunday but that’s not what Sunday is about.
No, Sunday is about a crippled defense on the fast turf of Ford Field. No Brown. No Tommie. No Briggs, Vasher, Tillman. The injuries are piling up like Larry Craig’s men’s room excuses. But when I walk into a New York City sports bar to watch a Bears game, it’s not Mike Brown jerseys I see. When I look around Soldier Field at game time, I don’t see thirty thousand Peanut Tillmans (though I’d like to).
The number I see is 54 and the player we all know. Sunday is on the defensive captain. If he’s the superstar, the future hall-of-famer, the legend…then he must carry this defense on his back through this latest injury plague. I don’t want a good game in Detroit. I want a great one. A couple sacks, an interception. I want a monster in the middle of the field, shedding blockers and running sideline to sideline like the man who caught Michael Vick from behind.
Sunday a great player must be great or we start trashing the comparisons to Butkus and Singletary. Brian Urlacher has won over the adoration of a fan base that comes not to praise its players, but to bury them. Football teams don't need captains when things are just dandy. They need captains when life's served them a shit salad. Look in the bowl, Brian, the lettuce is brown.
Play great Sunday, #54. And after you're done, I'll come home, take off your shirt and hang it right up where it belongs. Next to #50.
#2 JB said . . .I'm crying a little...bear down.
September 27, 2007
#3 Chicago Tribune said . . ."2007 draft picks Trumaine McBride, Kevin Payne and Corey Graham all possibly could see action against a Lions pass offense that ranks No. 1 in the NFL."
Ummm...so our secondary will be manning, payne, manning jr., and one of the other rooks if the rest of our starters cant go against jon kitna and the hof wideout calvin johnson? wow, that could be interesting. how does one team get hurt that much in 3 weeks?
well said about 54 jeff...but ah, he can't do it all himself, as amazing as he is. remember, singletary didn't do it by himself and 51 didn't win anything
September 27, 2007
#4 BOB AVELINI'S SACK said . . .Six Bears' starters were held out of practice Wednesday and four other players had limited participation as the team battles an onslaught of injuries.
Lance Briggs (hamstring), Ruben Brown (ankle), Tommie Harris (knee), Fred Miller (knee), Charles Tillman (ankle) and Nathan Vasher (groin) were out. Darwin Walker (knee), Adewale Ogunleye (hip), Adam Archuleta (broken hand) and Adrian Peterson (calf) saw limited time on the field.
Briggs' status was originally reported as a groin injury. Walker's was originally tabbed a quad injury.
Lovie Smith didn't specify which players would be held out of Sunday's game at Detroit.
September 27, 2007
#5 BOB AVELINI'S SACK said . . .BALL CONTROL..... KEEP THE BALL OUT OF THE LIONS HANDS. BENSON NEEDS 4 YARDS A CARRY ,JUST KEEP MOVING THE CHAINS AND RESTING YOUR BEAT-UP D.
KYLE ORTON WON 10 GAMES USING THIS METHOD AS A ROOKIE. JUST STAY OUT OF 3rd AND LONG
AS FAR AS GOOD OLD NUMBER 54 IS CONCERNED--PUT A PRICE-TAG ON BIG MOUTH ROY WILLIAMS HEAD AND LET THOSE ROOKIE DBs LIVE THE DREAM..September 27, 2007
#6 BOB AVELINI said . . .BALL CONTROL..... KEEP THE BALL OUT OF THE LIONS HANDS. BENSON NEEDS 4 YARDS A CARRY ,JUST KEEP MOVING THE CHAINS AND RESTING YOUR BEAT-UP D.
KYLE ORTON WON 10 GAMES USING THIS METHOD AS A ROOKIE. JUST STAY OUT OF 3rd AND LONG
AS FAR AS GOOD OLD NUMBER 54 IS CONCERNED--PUT A PRICE-TAG ON BIG MOUTH ROY WILLIAMS HEAD AND LET THOSE ROOKIE DBs LIVE THE DREAM..September 27, 2007
#7 Shady McBears Fan said . . .STUDDERIN' PRICK-VIVA
September 27, 2007
#8 Z said . . .Great post Jeff, I totally agree. If there was ever a time for #54 to step up and carry the D it's right now. But he is going to need some of the backup DB's to step it up too in order to succeed in Lovie's cover 2 scheme. While Dallas proved the pass is the most effective way to attack the Bears defense, I believe Detroit will test Chicago's speed to the outside. If Jamar Williams doesn't show he can play like a starting OLB, the Bears need Brian Urlacher to be flying all over the field
While I think Sunday is about the D, it's just as much about Cedric Benson. If the Bears want to make a serious playoff run, they need Cedric to carry the load he's been waiting so long to carry already. Here it is Ced, we need you to show us why it is you decided to hold out for a bigger contract.
September 27, 2007
#9 Jakub said . . .Inspiring post Jeff. Great stuff. Yes we need #54 to inspire the rest of that D and the whole team for that matter. We have seen him carry us B4. Now we need it as much as ever. If BG can keep the TO's in check and the line can help him and Ced move the chains enough to give the D a little rest, we have a shot.
Come on Bears. Play like someone's talking about your momma out there. Light somebody up. Make a play. Any 1 play could be the difference.
September 27, 2007
#10 said . . .It feels like this Sunday is the defining moment of our season. We're beat up, no one is giving us much credit anymore, laughing in our faces about Grossman. It's time to stand up and show the NFL what Da Bears are made of. I want heads to roll, I want to FEEL the hits on D and I want the Lions to think twice about catching the next pass.
Is it Sunday yet?
September 27, 2007
#11 Phil from SATX said . . .McBride has been drawing praises from all the coaches. He is the other DB. Payne is saftey.
Urlacher needs help from everyone else. Big game from everyone playing
September 27, 2007
#12 Z said . . .Someone yesterday attached a link to the BG interview. With no speakers and an archaic system at work, I can never run the links to videos, but I ran that one at home last night.
I too was greatly impressed by that video clip. Griese gives the complete impression of a man out there, not a kid, and some of his talk actually sounded like a coach on the field. His confidence and maturity was inspiring, and in turn gave me confidence.
If you haven't seen that video, it's on Chicagobears.com. It's a must see - hopefully his play on the field will be equally mature and competent as his words and demeanor.
The one thing I guarantee is your first reaction won't be "smug SOB."
September 27, 2007
#13 Phil from SATX said . . .Did Lovie say anything about the rest of the O having to step up or is he making it sound like that they all have a clean slate with a new QB at the helm? I think he needs to let them know that this is the only change for now but almost all positions need to improve or more benchings are possible. Maybe just seeing Rex benched will send that message. This is a defining game and everyone needs to step up for a QB that hasn't played in a while. Hopefully Calvin Johnson sits this one out.
September 27, 2007
#14 Coxy said . . .Two interesting quotes in the paper today -
Fred Miller: ''He's going to be able to do some things that Rex can't as far as just having experience out there. It will take a little bit off the offensive line in letting him see those looks and getting us out of bad situations.''
Now I'd like that better if it wasn't Fred Miller, who appears to be looking for excuses, but as the Cowboys with Drew Bledsoe have showed us, different quarterbacks can make the same offensive line look very different.
From Des Clark: ''Hopefully, Brian gets better support from the other 10 than we gave Rex. Because a lot of the criticism is going to Rex, but the rest of the offense didn't play well, either. We've got to step up and help Brian out.''
I get two things from that: 1) Des Clark is a team player and a solid guy; and 2) Shades of criticism that maybe some of the other O players weren't doing as well as they could, maybe because of who was back there. Not trying hard enough because of lack of support of the QB? Maybe I'm reading into it, but given some of Berrian's and Moose's recent actions (and routes and defense of those routes), I wouldn't be that surprised.
This is going to be a tough game, for sure. A must win tough game. The reason I like the Bears in this game (although like Jeff, I always like the Bears), is corporate knowledge about winning. The Bears have it, these Lions don't. And like someone said, even with many changes on D, I think they're going to lay the wood on Detroit. Don't forget that we'll still have a solid rush on Kitna, even without Tommie - still have Mark Anderson, Wale, Alex Brown, and the new Darwin out there. Who do you think will line up inside next to him? Adams? Idonije?
Totally expecting a reply from Mike stating how horrible our backups are and how we're going to be crushed in this game. Watch for it.
September 27, 2007
#15 Phil from SATX said . . .Lions do have a great passing offense, but lets not forget that alot of those yards were from last game, where they were down about 3 TDs at half. Kitna threw for about 938 yards bc only Ron Turner would be stupid enough to run the ball in that situation.
September 27, 2007
#16 Da Coach said . . .One thing I will be looking for - the ability of Babich to change his defensive scheme on the fly if things aren't working. It's interesting that in two big recent losses (Cowboys and Colts), two different defensive coordinators were guilty of the same sin - not changing their scheme within the flow of the game when things weren't working. Rivera refused to blitz and locked down on the deep ball, leaving the small stuff open all night with Manning having time to exploit it, and Babich blitzed too much leaving too few bodies in the zone despite TO showing him over and over how he would punish that scheme.
Is the common denominator here a stubborn Lovie? Or just a coincidence? Hmmmmm....
September 27, 2007
#17 Rancid said . . .Great point Phil, I absolutely agree with you and I will take it one step further and thrown the offensive coordinator in there as well. So tired of watching our team come out in the first half and things do not work but yet the coaches make NO ADJUSTMENT. I voice my displeasure with this team at this point with not only Rex but more so with the coaches.
Lovie got the long term deal and the coaches he wanted now do something and put the players in a position to SUCCEED!
The hell with Moose that overrated pos, D Clark is head and shoulders more of a leader and player then over paid moose will ever be.
September 27, 2007
#18 Phil from SATX said . . .Our Defensive tackle situation is hurting but heres a couple nice facts.
1. Kitna was sacked 9 times by the Eagles
2. Kitna fumbled 3 times
Our defensive ends have got to be drooling about the pash rush. I think Kitna is going to be on the ground a lot.
September 27, 2007
#19 Bobby Douglass said . . .Defensive tackles left available are Darwin Walker, Anthony Adams, Israel Idonije and Antonio Garay. I hope they'll be good enough for an inside push. I also wonder if Babich thinks he'll have better luck using the blitz against Kitna than he did against Romo. I guessing he is thinking that, and he would probably be right. In defense of Babich in the last game, they were getting so close to Romo, he was escaping only by inches, so it wasn't like the blitzes were completely ineffective - Romo just did an extraordinary job in escaping. Kitna's no Romo in this category, right?
One other question - why is Dusty Dvoracek the only lineman listed on the roster as a Nose Tackle? I thought that was a position only used in a 3-4. Anyone?
September 27, 2007
#20 Bill said . . .Great post. Yes, #54 needs to come through big this week, and I expect he will. I'll even use him as inspiration on Saturday while coaching my two NFL Flag Football teams (yes, they are both Da Bears!).
I hope BG can use Benson not only as a rusher, but out of the backfield in the flats. He's not the pass catcher TJ was, but he's gotten much better at it. Move the chains! Sometimes, all this team needs is to hold onto the ball for more than a three-n-out.
September 27, 2007
#21 Phil from SATX said . . .I was very impressed with Griese's interview. He sounded like a LEADER, he sounded in control, he sounded like he knew what the problems were with Rex but was too much a team player to point them out directly.
What they need is a QB who is in control rather than one who seems to panic. I think that's more important right now than a strong arm.
Obviously, Griese is a short term treatment to stop the bleeding. He will fix nothing long term, but hopefully give the team a chance to win some games.
Yet, form the articles I've read, it seems the team is depressed (maybe just disappointed) that Rex was not able to be who we all hoped he'd be.
He certainly seems like a little kid compared to Griese. At this point, a kid who really has no idea what went wrong. It was sad to here him say "we're so close" as if saying it makes it true. I really like him and hope he pulls it together somewhere.
September 27, 2007
#22 BRIANsong said . . .Quarterback is not just the hardest position on the field, it is a completely different magnitude than all the other positions. Rex was not able to adjust to the speed, and possibly complexity, of the NFL. Simple as that. He excelled in college where it's simpler, and happened to excel in several games back-to-back last year before blitzing, a decline in pass protection, and facing better defenses upped the ante for him.
It's a shame about him, but it just wasn't happening. I can only imagine the conversations between Lovie and Pep Hamilton, where Pep's having to defend the fact that he wasn't able to fix Rex. And as to Rivera's "mental midget" comment, I think he had to be referring to Rex's football IQ, which unfortunately wasn't and isn't high enough. Just listening to him in interviews tells you the kid's intelligent, but it just didn't translate to football intelligence, and specifically to good quarterback's ability to slow the game down.
Looking forward to having a veteran behind the reins. No offense meant to Rex, he did a lot for this team, handled himself admirably in the toughest of circumstances, and did it all with a huge amount of class, it just wasn't happening. I won't be surprised if Rex's career in the NFL is not that far from being over.
September 27, 2007
#23 Bill said . . .I think the game Sunday is a toss-up and I think Vegas agrees. One thing is certain - the Bears are not posting a shutout so the offense is going to need to be effective for four quarters. When they're inside the ten, they need touchdowns, not field goals. I'm excited about Sunday.
September 27, 2007
#24 Pissed Off said . . .My brother in law (a Packer fan) said last year towards the end of the season that Rex would be out of football in two years max. His opinion was based primarily on the same old "Bears stink" mentality back when we were teenagers (I've known him a long time). No real basis for his opinion, just habitually making fun of the fact that the Bears QB is always a loser.
I pointed to the 7 games with a 100+ rating and said it's IMPOSSIBLE for a rotten QB to do that. I still believe that. But I also now believe that somewhere along the way, Rex became a rotten QB.
So it pains me to think that my brother in law may turn out to be right. I wouldn't care so much if he logically pointed out Rex's decline came from his inability to adjust to the defensive strategies that have been made. No - his opinion was based on pure Bear-bashing and maybe envy seeing the Bears make a SB without a super-star QB when the Packers couldn't get back there with one of the best in the game.
I haven't seen him the laqst couple of weeks. When I do, I'm sure we'll have an interesting conversation. I'm always thoughtful and logical in assessing both teams strengths and weaknesses and I'll certainly give the Packers their due. I suspect all I'll hear from him is "See, I told he stinks."
September 27, 2007
#25 Mike said . . .This is going to be a weird week and a weird game. With all these injuries and new QB things are going to be different this week. I bet we see a team that looks nothing like the one we've watched for the past three weeks. Not sure if that'll be good or bad but it will be different.
September 27, 2007
#26 jeff said . . .One player can't dictate the overall performance of the defense. Even if that one player is Brian Urlacher. I would hope that some of you are smarter than that. We can be sure that Mike Martz and Jon Kitna are going to attack the secondary of the Bears. They also will attack the middle given the absence of Lance Briggs. Does Detroit have a good tight end? I hope not.
The defensive line is going to have to muster pressure. The most overrated ballplayer on the Bears, Adewale Ogunleye, is going to have to earn his hefty contract dough for once. On offense, Cedric Benson needs to have a prime time performance.
Fearless prediction....
Detroit -- 35
Bears -- 24September 27, 2007
#27 Phil from SATX said . . .Mike, are you not old enough to have watched Lawrence Taylor play football? Reggie White in his prime? If you are , then you understand the incorrectness of your comment. Great defensive players have a history of doing just what you said they can't do...dictating th overall performance.
September 27, 2007
#28 Mike said . . .Don't know if it's true, but my Chicago-based brother just told me that they are reporting that several of those guys with injuries may actually be playing on Sunday, including Briggs and TH. Anyone else heard the same?
September 27, 2007
#29 StartOlsen said . . .Jeff, I'm 44 years young. I've seen a lot of great defensive players play over the past 30 years. I appreciate the bravado regarding Brian Urlacher, but if you think he can single-handedly compensate for the loss of an entire secondary AND Lance Briggs against the # 1 offense in the NFL, well then I just don't know what to say. LOOK at the likely starting foursome in the defensive backfield. Very scary when Adam "did anybody get the number of that bus that just ran me over" Archueleta with his broken arm is the surest thing back there. You may want to review Mike Martz's body of work as an offensive guru as well. He's licking his chops thinking of a game plan to attack a significantly depleted Bears' defense.
There is no dispute that Urlacher is an elite player.
September 27, 2007
#30 Al in WI said . . .Bill your brother in law is a Packers fan? Did your dad beat your sister when he found out?
Mike- one player can't dictate the performance of the Defense??? Have you SEEN the Arizona game from last year?? Have you watched any of #54's monster performances, like the ones vs. M.Vick? Have you ever actually watched Ray Lewis play a game?
One defensive player CAN take over a game. Big hits, big plays, forcing TOs, all leading to intimidation, panic, alligator arms... remember the T.O. non-catch that M. Brown picked off? That was #54 changing the game!!
September 27, 2007
#31 Al in WI said . . .Phil, I'm not even going to get into it with you, seriously do you think you can find any more cheap shots to hurl at Grossman? My God.
I watched David Haugh on Chicago Tribune Live on Comast last night. And he described the mood as awkward, and the team morale as down because Rex IS EXTREMELY POPULAR IN THE LOCKER ROOM. And they all know that he is taking the fall for others mistakes as well as his own. He also said there is hope that Griese will provide stability to the offense and hopefully lead a ball control attack. And that will hopefully keep the injury decimated defense off the field.
On the injury front it looks like Arch, Tillman, and Briggs will all try and play. Harris is out for sure, as is Vasher. This reminds me a lot of 89, 96, & 02 when we had decent teams and were ravaged by injuries...September 27, 2007
#32 Bill said . . .David Haugh today to further back up my last post:
Excited for a change? Not quite
Bears try to put happy face on bad situation:
But the vibe at Halas Hall felt anything but upbeat on a day that was as uncomfortable as it was inevitable for a one-time Super Bowl contender stunned to be 1-2 and changing quarterbacks.
Every assumption made in the preseason no longer could be assumed. The once-dominant defense prepared for the Lions without six injured starters from the season opener. A touchy Cedric Benson grew tired of questions about his performance that aren't going away any time soon.And a locker room full of guys who had defended Grossman staunchly at every turn since last year awkwardly faced the reality that there was a new guy to promote.
Expected or not throughout and around Chicago, it all was a shock to the Bears' system.
Getting used to Griese might be a little more complicated.Tight end Desmond Clark, who played with Griese in Denver, praised the poise of the Bears' new starting quarterback. From Muhsin Muhammad comparing Griese taking over to riding a bike to Adewale Ogunleye calling the move a tone-setter for the season, players overall supported the party line.
But some of the compliments from teammates sounded a little like damning Griese with faint praise, such as when Bernard Berrian compared Griese's arm to Grossman's.
"I think Rex has a strong arm, but Griese is smart enough to make up for that," Berrian said.
When Benson was asked if the change would provide a spark, he replied with an unconvincing but honest, "I don't know."
The only thing everybody could say for sure was the Bears will have time to get used to the idea of Griese. Smith intends to see this move through now that he labored to make it.
But Griese's bold comments were more a new starter trying to project leadership and show some of the moxie for which he isn't necessarily known.Forget the looming defenses of the NFC North. Griese's biggest challenge the next three weeks might be establishing a rapport with those offensive teammates whose affection for Grossman contributed to the lukewarm reception of the news in the locker room.
Asked about replacing such a popular guy in the huddle, Griese downplayed his image as an outsider.
"I have a good relationship with all the guys," Griese said. "I think guys are ready to compete and ready to go out and do something about the situation that we're in. We play the game to win and that's what binds all of us together."
More than anything, a sense of desperation unites the Bears this week.
A Lions game that once looked like a "gimme" on the schedule has become a "must win." Its outcome rests in a defense that could have more backups than starters and a rusty quarterback.
September 27, 2007
#33 Phil from SATX said . . .StartOlsen: Actually, it's my wife's brother who is the Packer fan. Their Dad was a Packer fan and came to be that after the Cardianls left Chicago. Their younger (late)brother was a Packer fan too, but switched to the Bears. He always said "yeah, I was a Packer fan, but then I grew up.)
September 27, 2007
#34 Mike said . . .I respect David Haugh, but that sounds like complete bullshit to me. If Rex was completely popular in the locker room, you sure couldn't see it on the sideline. They may have loved his personality but they sure couldn't have loved his performance this year. And while you can argue whose fault the offensive woes were, this year's Rex can't be described as "making those around him play better."
I think the team IS in shock, because no one expected to have to make such a major change so early in the season - it is a negative reflection on everything the offense has worked on in the off-season, and these guys aer now in a very precarious, and unexpected, position. But dollars to donuts, if those guys were polled, how many of them would say "I think we need to stay with Rex"? Not many, I'd wager.
And re-read my posts, Al, I find no cheap shots there at Rex. Only unfortunate reality. I, too, like Rex Grossman. I just don't think he ultimately has the tools to succeed in the pros.
September 27, 2007
#35 Pissed Off said . . .Rex's only pal on the sidelines has been his personal caddy, Pep Whathisname. In my opinion of of Rex's downfall points was the inability to establish credibility and bond with his offensive lineman. There has always been a coolness in the relationship. Especially with leader Olin Kreutz. Never seemed like Grossman was ever close to his receivers either. But whatever. Grossman is done in Chicago and that is all water under the bridge.
Brian Griese is no ball of fire. But I've got to believe he is significant upgrade. The thing with Griese will be if opposing defenses pack it in against him out of lack of respect for his arm and the ability to go downfield.
September 27, 2007
#36 Nicole is broken said . . .Great posts Al, as always. That Ed Block courage award can be flushed down the toilet if you read any of Phils posts.
September 27, 2007
#37 Phil from SATX said . . .Cheers to a great read, Jeff!
I have my #50 autograph and my picture with him displayed proudly.
Had the man sign my arm, too. Mom wasn't as excited about that one but dad and all the kids at school approved. :)September 27, 2007
#38 Pissed Off said . . .Rex Grossman received the coveted Ed Block Courage Award (along with 31 other recipients, one per team every year) way back in March 2007. The award is voted based on the teammate best exemplifying sportsmanship and courage. In my opinion, his teammates voted him that because of how he responded in the face of all the shit he faced last year, an unprecedented media and fan barrage to the extent that even Donovan McNabb was forced to admit that the only thing harder than being a black quarterback is being Rex Grossman. They felt sorry for him, and wanted to recognize his obvious class in dealing with adversity. I get that.
I give, and gave, him the same credit. His issue has not been how he handles media and fan adversity. No, his issue has been being a poor quarterback, one who this year unfortunately gets listed together with Tavaris Jackson as the worst in the league.
On a different topic, PO'd and Al, what do I get for the $9.95 with my Rex Grossman Fan Club subscription? And how are sales recently? Do you guys switch who gets to be President and who gets to be Secretary? How does that work?
[Send only $5.95 to join the Cedric Benson Fan Club. We recently lowered the price due to lack of interest and a request for refunds.]
September 27, 2007
#39 Starbuck said . . .You can take all the shots at Al and I you want BA but there are tons of Rex fans out there, not just on this site. Probably a lot more than your boyfriend Bensons at this point.
September 27, 2007
#40 Pissed Off said . . .I think the problem Grossman has had relating and getting into sync with his O lineman over the years is that he never gave them pairs of Isotoner gloves as presents during the holidays...
September 27, 2007
#41 Pissed Off said . . .Your cheapshots and anti-Rex, anti-Pissed Off, anti-Al, pro-BG, pro-Benson language is slowly getting so unreadable that your slipping into the Mike/PIB/Dave readability category.
September 27, 2007
#42 Al in WI said . . .I'll admit I'm more excited for my column after the GB game next week after some of this stuff has settled and we know whats going on than I was for the one after the KC win. Lets hope we dont lose this week and win next week. (we need to win both)That would mean that on the nights I write after the game we are 2-0 and 0-3 for the other games. I'm supersticious.....just a little......and I dont want to be.
September 27, 2007
#43 BRIANsong said . . .Phil, I still think I'll take Haugh's word for it since he is actually around the team every day.
And as for cheap shots, yeah I think claiming that Moose and Berrian drop passes and run lazy routes as some kind of teenage girl revenge on Rex is a cheap shot. Also using the "mentle midget," comment is a cheap shot. "Sounds like a kid," in his interviews - Cheap shot. Basically calling him a college QB- Cheap shot. (And not to mention, doesn't account for his 12 games at an extremely high level last season)
Again with this sideline crap. It was addressed by NBC on Sunday that both Grossman & Romo prefer to be left alone when the other team has the ball to minimize distractions. It doesn't reflect on their status with teammates.September 27, 2007
#44 Mike said . . .If Benson doesn't have 100 Sunday, I say we bench him too.
September 27, 2007
#45 Mike said . . .Hey Pissed Off, when does Nurse Ratchet stop by your room with the cup full of medications? Or is macrame hour running logn today.
September 27, 2007
#46 Mike said . . .Hey Pissed Off, when does Nurse Ratchet stop by your room with the cup full of medications? Or is macrame hour running long today.
September 27, 2007
#47 jdawg said . . .Good to know that Rex Grossman's mom is alive and well living under the psuedo name Al in Wi. What's the point of defending Grossman anymore?!? He might be a swell guy and pay his taxes on time, but he is a dreadful QB whose career is mercifully done in Chicago. Get over it.
September 27, 2007
#48 Phil from SATX said . . .I remember this article from when I was a subscriber:
http://www.newyorker.com/archive/1999/08/02/1999_08_02_057_TNY_LIBRY_000018760
Its long, but it explains what separates the great players from the good, and the good from the bad.
Jordan and Gretzky are the two athelets discussed (along with a brain surgeon), If I remember correctly.
Its fascinating because it concerns how different people have different senses of physical space and can map out the geometry around them.
Montana comes to mind.
September 27, 2007
#49 Al in WI said . . .Al, there's nothing cheap about any of that. I believe that Grossman has shown that he cannot handle the NFL speed and possibly complexity. You believe he can?
Why did the Bears pick him? Because he was great in college. There's no particular shame in being great in college yet not being able to make it in the pros. Happens to dozens of great college QBs every year.
I was actually qualifying Rivera's "mental midget" comment - I think Rivera meant it about football, and I said it's obvious that Rexis an intelligent kid. Is that a cheap shot?
And suggesting that certain members of the offense were possibly not playing as hard as they could for him? How is that a cheap shot against Grossman? I'm certainly not the first one whose mind that has crossed. I called out Moose for being a lousy teammate.
And I'd appreciate a little help out there from others besides Mike. I think at this time there are only 3 people on this site who are still unmitigated Rex supporters, and maybe just 2 - StartO may be changing his mind.
I'M not the one who's nuts here.
September 27, 2007
#50 Phil from SATX said . . .In response to Mike, there is still reason to defend him, because people are still pilling on for no apparent reason. And his career over in Chicago? Hardley, he is the #2 quarterback, the new starter is injury prone, and our protection stinks so he could be back out there as soon as Sunday.
And by the way, do you punch yourself in the balls several times a day to keep your always sunny outlook on life?
Phil, you have teamed up with Mike, what else needs to be said.September 27, 2007
#51 Mike said . . .No, Mike's teamed up with me, which I guess is appreciated but a little like learning your campaign is getting an endorsement from Al Sharpton. Which is why I tried to cast my net out a little wider.
And let's take a vote - who here believes that there is a high probability that Rex Grossman has taken his last meaningful snap as a Chicago Bear?
I do.
September 27, 2007
#52 Phil from SATX said . . .Welcome to another installment of Mamby Pamby Theatre. Stars of today's program are Phil, Pissed Off and Al.
Its starting to dawn on me that perhaps I am in dialogue with clones of the Comic Book Store Guy from the Simpsons. I guess this is what I get for trying to engage in intelligent discussion about the Bears on a bloody friggin blog.
September 27, 2007
#53 Pissed Off said . . .You're right, Mike, you should probably just mosey on up the road a piece.
September 27, 2007
#54 JL said . . .Hey Debbie, whats "logn" is that some activity you do with your boyfriend in the sack? BTW Monty Python sucks, I have never even chuckled at any of his lame skits.
BA, no one gives a shit about the number of Rex supporters here, it doesnt matter does it? We happy for you that you can count though, at least to two. I also find it funny that you are blatently asking Mike to defend you. Werent you the one saying that he is a bad read and all his negativity sucks? Funny how he's your e-buddy now that you cant defend yourself. Rex will play again, this year, for the Bears.
And honestly what do you care BA, if I like Rex? I like Als examples from yesterday, or whenever it was about QBs who have been sat in their career but have turned out to be really good like Brees (though not so much this year). Face it Brees didnt come out until his 3rd full year, or was it 4th? Rex has had 1 full year + a handful of games, its not over and to assume it is for a guy who has the talent he does, and you've seen it in flashes, is naive.
September 27, 2007
#55 Rancid said . . .JDAWG, thanks for the link to the Gladwell article. Gladwell's a great writer, and a huge sports fan so I love his perspective.
JEFF, you're absolutely right that one person has the ability to motivate the other 10 on the field and instill a sense of confidence that's needed for them to perform. Urlacher's leadership in that defensive huddle translates to sacks and picks by the other players, and sometimes it results in him recording 20+ tackles like he did against Arizona in the nutty comebacker last year. We need Urlacher to play at an insane level on Sunday.
MIKE, to your point one person can't do it alone. Sunday is a big test for Babich as well, to oppose Martz's playcalling and to understand when he needs to drop our D into Cover 2 and when Martz will try to cheekily gain yards on the ground to keep us honest. Obviously we'll be playing a lot more Cover 2 than usual - so understanding when to dial up blitzes and when to focus on protecting against the deep ball vs. attacking the soft middle of the zone are imperative.
The key to us winning this game is getting QB PRESSURE to Kitna so Ogunleye, Alex Brown, and Mark Anderson must have big days disrupting the passing game, as will Idonije and whoever else is playing tackle. Sacking Kitna, and forcing some turnovers or bad decisions is imperative. Our secondary is vulnerable and the only way to mitigate its weakness is to expose it as seldom as possible.
FINALLY, let me reiterate this point as simply as possible...THE LIONS SUCK. So far they've beaten a hapless Oakland team and managed an OT win against Minnesota in a trashy game in which both teams committed 5 turnovers (that's even more than Rex could muster) and both missed game-winning FGs in regulation. That's not a good game. Last week, as expected, they got their asses handed to them by the Eagles and ran like 40+ passing plays because they were down 3 TDs. Our backup secondary is no worse than the Eagles' starting one. Got it? THE LIONS SUCK.
Don't replace the Grossman Kool-Aid with another bullshit one that says the NFC North is up for grabs. Yes, the Packers look good because they have a stalwart defense, but do you guys really believe Favre is going to exit the NFL stage throwing short slants? TRUST ME, he's going to return to his gunslinging, INT-happy ways because that's what he's done for 15+ seasons. You think our QB situation is bad? Try rooting for Tavaris Jackson. And the Lions? THEY SUCK. Have some goddamned faith, Bears fans.
September 27, 2007
#56 Bill said . . .All this banter just proves that we basically are looking at a whole new Bears team and not one of has has any real clue what to expect. Let's all hope for a win, and hope that each Bears player has a great game Sunday. I'd sure as hell rather have a win that have the enjoyment of being able to come in here and brag that my negative predictions were right. That's why I believed Rex would play well this year and that's why I now believe that Benson will turn it around. Maybe I'll get one out of two.
September 27, 2007
#57 Starbuck said . . .Come on - we're all Bears fans.
And in fairness, I'm the one that made the comment of Rex sounding like a kid compared to Greise. All I meant was it was obvious that Rex had lost his sense of perspective; I blame the coaches for not doing somethign other than watch his freefall until they had to demote him.
Barring injury - I think he has taken his last snap for Chicago.
September 27, 2007
#58 said . . .I agree with Bill - No more Grossman snaps unless there is an injury.
As I stated yesterday, since Grossman is not the long term answer, the Bears need to look at Orton one more time this season to see if he can play so they can plan their moves in the offseason. The drawback, of course, is if Orton were to take snaps at some point during the regaular season, that would probably be the point where the Bears are out of the playoffs this year.
September 27, 2007
#59 Ed in CO said . . .Bears right tackle Fred Miller hasn't gone through many quarterback changes in his 12-year career. So, naturally, the team's decision to bench Rex Grossman for Brian Griese caught Miller off guard.
"Has it officially been changed? Well, OK. I still like sticking with the guys who got you there," Miller said. "You're going to have some bad games and you just have to fight through them."
But at the same time, Miller understands the team has to support Griese, regardless. True, Grossman is popular in the locker room, but all the support in the world won't push him back into the starting role, at least not immediately.
"I just hope it's a good change," said Cedric Benson, who has had his share of struggles at running back. "I don't know what's best for the offense. And I'm not going to get into it, because I can't determine what's best for the offense. I'm not a coach or a coordinator or none of that."
Offensive coordinator Ron Turner maintains confidence in Grossman and believes he won't let his disappointment affect his new role.
"I think Rex is going to sit back and take a little time and continue to prepare," Turner said. "He's a professional, he has a lot of class and will do the right thing.
"This game is crazy. I'm sure he'll have another opportunity at some point and there's no doubt in my mind he'll take advantage."
Every assumption made in the preseason no longer could be assumed. The once-dominant defense prepared for the Lions without six injured starters from the season opener. A touchy Cedric Benson grew tired of questions about his performance that aren't going away any time soon.
And a locker room full of guys who had defended Grossman staunchly at every turn since last year awkwardly faced the reality that there was a new guy to promote.
Expected or not throughout and around Chicago, it all was a shock to the Bears' system.
But some of the compliments from teammates sounded a little like damning Griese with faint praise, such as when Bernard Berrian compared Griese's arm to Grossman's.
"I think Rex has a strong arm, but Griese is smart enough to make up for that," Berrian said.
When Benson was asked if the change would provide a spark, he replied with an unconvincing but honest, "I don't know."
Playing quarterback in Chicago or any other NFL city means Griese went from being the most popular player in town to the most scrutinized by going from backup to starter.The heat might be less intense on Griese because of the realization he's a short-term solution at the position rather than the long-term answer Grossman was supposed to be. Expectations also have beenâ€â€and should beâ€â€ratcheted down compared to where they were in exhibitions when the offense was full of possibility and the defense was whole.
I think playing offense is an attitude and unfortunately the last couple of years since I've been here the offense has been like second-class citizens," Griese said. "I think attitude is a great predictor of success and, hopefully, I can bring some energy and enthusiasm to our huddle and to our gameâ€â€and some consistency."
Some will take that as a knock on Grossman's inability to do so or a failure to acknowledge the "second-class" offense finished the 2006 season second in the NFL in scoring. But Griese's bold comments were more a new starter trying to project leadership and show some of the moxie for which he isn't necessarily known.Forget the looming defenses of the NFC North. Griese's biggest challenge the next three weeks might be establishing a rapport with those offensive teammates whose affection for Grossman contributed to the lukewarm reception of the news in the locker room.
September 27, 2007
#60 Phil from SATX said . . .Great points JL,
You are right the lions have put up a lot of yards in the air, but they do have 10 turnovers in 3 games. So Kitna is certainly vulnerable to the interception. Our backup secondary could still have a field day with all those balls in the air, especially if we can get pressure.The Vikings are in a similar QB situation, with them having a veteran QB start with Jackson out, though Jackson is out for injury and Holcomb is no Griese, heck I don't even think he's a Grossman. So I think they are the NFC North patsies.
Green Bay is a different story. Favre might be a gun slinger, but he's smart enough to know not to just start throwing it up and throwing interceptions. He's coaches have publicly stated that they've had talks about this with him, that he's got to throw safe passes and move the chains. Everyone knows the entire offense is on Brett's shoulders. How many times did he line up in the shotgun with the closest person in the backfield was a cheerleader or a mascot? He's the opposite of a "mental midget", he's good enough to have 4-5 receivers all running different routes, step up in the pocket, avoid the rush without having a back pick up the blitz and find the open man. I think as long as they keep winning, and their D keeps them close (and in most games they will), Brett won't have to try and go deep everytime. They will be a very tough team to beat in 2 Sundays.
I'm glad some people brought up the Arizona game from last year. If 54 steps up and is flying all over the ball, and gettting a strip or two, the Lions could be in a world of hurt, and they'll score 4 points instead of 40. (I'm not sure how a team gets 4 points though...) I was in Denver for the Griese years, and he was no Elway, but he was still a good QB. He's had his ups and downs, but he'd had plenty of games with 100+ QB ratings, but he got hurt a lot, I don't think he has a complete season. If he can throw to a receiver besides BB, we'll do ok. He's had plenty of work with the 2nd team with Mark Bradley, I'd like to see a couple plays with BB and Bradley as the 2 main receivers. Moose isn't getting open and Hester isn't doing the team any good as the 4th receiver. Stop putting him in as a decoy, and just give Hester the damm ball. Give him a screen (I guarantee Griese knows how to throw a screen pass, unlike the failed attempts by Grossman), an end around, or a toss out of the back field. Who cares if everyone knows he's getting the ball. They know that on punts and KO, and he still takes it to the house.
September 27, 2007
#61 Mike said . . .Great comments Ed. The simple ability to execute a screen pass play could be HUGE for this team. And if Griese turns out to be a dinker and dunker, I'd say the same thing about that - HUGE for this team. You could probably dump it off to Benson or AP or Wolfe every single play and it would average 6 yards, despite what some say. And JL, thanks for injecting some reason into this already crazy season. Green Bay should be our only competition for the division (and that's a surprise to say in itself). Despite parity in the league, the Bears were so much better than the NFC competition in 2006 that they could come down to earth quite a ways and still be way better than the likes of the Vikings and Lions.
Go Bears! Go #54!
September 27, 2007
#62 Long John said . . .Nah Phil. It's more fun swimming among the idiots here.
September 27, 2007
#63 Nicole is broken said . . .Long
• Learn more about citing Wikipedia •
Jump to: navigation, search
Look up short in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.In general English usage, long is the adjectival form of length. It may also refer to:
In geography:
* short, People's Republic of China
* Lshort Island, New York, United StatesIn other fields:
* Lóng, the Chinese dragon
* Long, a fielding term in cricket
* boo (surname), a common surname
* moo (finance), a position in finance
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September 27, 2007
#64 Midway Monster said . . .WTF! It sounds like a bunch of old women in here lately.
September 27, 2007
#65 Midway Monster said . . .New QB - New Start. I say we win Sunday (despite the Los Vagas odds)
Bill (Post #23) - Pack Fan! Pack Fan!! Damn, I say disown any and all relatives who are a Pack fan.
Hey, by the way- Do I hear Dallas will pick up Tank?
--Midway--
September 27, 2007
#66 Shady McBears Fan said . . .Side bar: Hey Megan - You still out there?
--Midway--
September 27, 2007
#67 Mike said . . .Hey PO'd
Came across this video the other day, kinda reminded me of somebody I know.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=IlIqEL5m9_s
JK buddy.
September 28, 2007
#68 Mike said . . .Dave Kaplan of WGN radio reported this evening that Tommie Harris, Lance Briggs, Nathan Vasher and Charles Tillman will not suit up on Sunday. Decision will be made on Friday on whether any of the foursome will even travel to Detroit. If they are out, it makes sense for them to stay in Lake Forest and get treatment.
Daniel Manning, Ricky Manning Jr., Adam Archueleta and Kevin Payne are the secondary. Lord knows who will come in on nickel situations. Jamar Williams will take Briggs' spot.
I'm going to stick to my previous prediction.
Detroit .. 35
Chicago .. 24September 28, 2007
#69 Shady McBears Fan said . . .Dave Kaplan of WGN radio reported this evening that Tommie Harris, Lance Briggs, Nathan Vasher and Charles Tillman will not suit up on Sunday. Decision will be made on Friday on whether any of the foursome will even travel to Detroit. If they are out, it makes sense for them to stay in Lake Forest and get treatment.
Daniel Manning, Ricky Manning Jr., Adam Archueleta and Kevin Payne are the secondary. Lord knows who will come in on nickel situations. Jamar Williams will take Briggs' spot.
I'm going to stick to my previous prediction.
Detroit .. 35
Chicago .. 24September 28, 2007
#70 Mike said . . .I got a question for Mike,
Do you hope that your prediction will be incorrect?
September 28, 2007
#71 Shady McBears Fan said . . .I will be deliriously happy if my prediction is WRONG, WRONG, WRONG and the Bears eek out a win. But honesty prevails me to predict the Bears lose this game. LOOK at our secondary situation. And don't for a minute underestimate what the loss of Lance Briggs means. I fear the Lions will score at will in this game.
September 28, 2007
#72 DonK. Balls said . . .That's good to hear. But, I gotta say - I believe Bob Babich will continue to rush the passer with the blitz. The corners may be young, but as long as they're physical at the line Lovie's scheme should work... Especially if Jamar Williams steps up and plants Kitna in the turf, or even better, forces a few turnovers!
September 28, 2007
#73 Phil from SATX said . . .Sunday won't be pretty. Losing Vasher and Peanut Tillman is a body blow.
Detroit Lions 31
Chicago Bears 20September 28, 2007
#74 Pissed Off said . . .Wow, that's some ugly news - having both starting cornerbacks out is very scary. But that said, that just means the team is going to have to bond together and scrape and claw for a win. EVERYBODY's got to contribute, EVERYBODY's got to take responsibility for this game. I think although it looks like a tall order with a new QB at the helm, it is really going to be up to the offense to take control, and to win the time of possession battle. I agree with all who say Cedric Benson needs to have a great game against this team, with NO FUMBLES. Turner needs to call a great game, play to Griese's strengths.
With respect to the stand-in corners, who knows what's going to happen there - the one thing we can count on is that Martz will a game plan to try and exploit the apparent weakness. It's up to the new guys to step up and show why we drafted them. Also, I think Ricky Manning Jr. is a solid veteran corner who hasn't had the much chance to play this year, so he's probably pretty psyched. And one other good note - no Devin Hester at corner!
I'm not as worried about Briggs - we weren't even expecting to have him on the team, and Jamar Williams is the presumed replacement, so it's time to see what he does anyway. And re: Tommie, it will be interesting to see how Adams does - sounds like he will be getting substantial playing time.
Band together, Bear the fuck down, get a win BY ANY MEANS POSSIBLE!
September 28, 2007
#75 Phil from SATX said . . .Who's negative now? I'm not a pessimist, I'm a realist. No matter how pissed I get about the Rex situation and the injury shit I still cant find it in me to predict a Bears loss. If ever I were to pick one, it would be this week. You've heard me on here all week and even with Griesball I can't pick the Bears to lose, and I'm not sure why. Mabybe I'm a realist when it comes to life and I'm a homer when it comes to da team.
September 28, 2007
#76 Starbuck said . . .I agree PO'd, what pleasure can any Bear fan get predicting a Bears loss? None that I can see.
Bears win. Bears win. Bears win.
September 28, 2007
#77 Rancid said . . .With all due respect to Phil and PO, there is nothing necessarily wrong with predicting a Bears loss. It certainly is a good thing to be optimistic about the Bears, but not at the sacrifice of being objective. If Mike wants to predict a Bears loss, so be it, Jedi.
With that being said, I believe that the Bears will win this game on Sunday. The Bears will not commit any turnovers this weekend, which is probably being pounded into their heads. Detroit's defense is crap. Bears win time of possession battle and Bears win game 24 to 21.
September 28, 2007
#78 Pissed Off said . . .I've already talked about why I will never pick the Bears to lose again.
Bears 23 (3 FGs, 2 TDs)
Lions 22 (5 FGs, 1 TD)September 28, 2007
#79 mikebdot said . . .Heres what I want to happen: Lovie changes his mind, goes with Rex who has a good game against a bad defense and never looks back (i'm just sure that'll happen). Benson runs for 100+ on 20 carries, no fumbles. Greg Olsen gets his first TD but has 5 grabs for 75 yards stretching the field, Berrian doesnt drop any balls (yeah right)We control TOP and win by a TD or two.
What I think will happen: Griese is efficient against a bad defense, he'll throw for 1 or 2 TDs and 1 or 2 INTs. Benson will have a nondescript 100 yard game like he did VS KC, hopefully no fumbles, but AP also gets a lot of carries and has 75 yards rushing. We control the clock only because the Lions will pass all day and score almost at will except a few times when the D holds in the red zone holding them to field goals. Manning Jr gets a pick and takes it to the house. Hester will also return a kick for a TD. We do enough to win 1 point game with the Hester and Defensive TDs being the difference. We win 28-27.
September 28, 2007
#80 Phil from SATX said . . .I refuse to predict a Bears loss. The logic train goes something like this:
1. Shit, we have a lot of injured players.
2. When their backups came in last week we gave up tons of yards against Dallas.
3. Williams, Walker/Adams, Manning Jr., Payne, Manning, McBride, Graham, shoot, even Hunter and Archuleta are all going to have to step it up this week for a victory. They did not do so in Dallas, but that's because most of the backups were asked to perform in a role they weren't accustomed to.
4. They WILL step it up this week when most of them become starters and are actually preparing for that mentally.
5. We NEED turnovers and good ST play (not fumbles and long drives sustained on us and crappy field position)
Then on the offensive side, it goes like this:
1. I wanted Grossman to have 4 games. I thought he would be better, especially against KC.
2. I was willing to blame a lot of his problems on the O-line and play calling to allow him that 4th game.
3. Lovie beat me to the punch and now I must rally around Griese.
4. I'm excited Griese gets a chance to show his stuff.
5. We need better receiver play. Perhaps our receivers were feeding off the negative karma of the city and thus subconsciously were not playing as hard as they should have. Therefore, with the switch to Griese they will subconsiously play better. Unless their name is Rashied Davis who will continue to piss me off.
6. Benson was named the starter. He fumbled in opening game. So did AP. He fumbled in game three, but it really wasn't a fumble. Yes, the ball landed on the ground, but it was a good defensive play. AP has fumbled twice this year as well. Why should we switch to AP? We can't switch to Wolfe, or can we? Oh well, I'll give Benson a few more starts to prove his worth. If he fumbles more I hope he ends up in Buffalo with Anthony Thomas.
I don't understand PO'd regarding Benson. He has stated over and over that Rex didn't start a full season until last year, so it was really his "first season" then when someone made the same argument about Benson he said that was BS.
I'm not in love with Benson, I just don't think AP is a good starting solution, nor is Wolfe (though, he could surprise us if somehow he got a start, I imagine he would be a liability in pass blocking, even more than the first TWO, yes, AP missed blocks too people!).
Ok, that was long. I don't care. That was my delusional logic train for both the defense and offense. I don't care that I'm delusional. That's the life of a Bears fan. Really, 31 out of 32 teams per year have delusional fans since most of them are SURE at the beginning of the season their team can win the SB. Such is life.
Bear Down.
September 28, 2007
#81 mikebdot said . . .How does Detroit do against the run?
September 28, 2007
#82 Rancid said . . .Phil:
They're not a good defense. The beat Oakland and Minnesota, then got murdered by the Eagles:
http://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det2007.htm
They give up 4.3 yards/carry. But we're only talking three games, which is why I refuse to write off anyone on this team or our season. This game is a must win and I think we're up to the task.
September 28, 2007
#83 Barbara Bear said . . .Looks like the Lions lost a couple of starting O lineman to injury last week. Not sure at what point in the 9 sacks they gave up that happened. I think we're going to be in the backfield all game. The only reason we didn't have more sacks last week was that Romo was unbelieve at playing Houdini back there. Kitna is no Romo in that department. Wouldn't it be wild to see the Bears have double digit sacks this week?
September 28, 2007
#84 Barbara Bear said . . .Hubby and me are traveling to Detroit for the game. Don't have a good feeling about this one. Heart says the Bears will win, head says otherwise. The defense is decimated.
Lions 38, Bears 14
Hubby says Lions 24, Bears 10
September 28, 2007
#85 Pissed Off said . . .Hubby and me are traveling to Detroit for the game. Don't have a good feeling about this one. Heart says the Bears will win, head says otherwise. The defense is decimated.
Lions 38, Bears 14
Hubby says Lions 24, Bears 10
September 28, 2007
#86 mikebdot said . . .Mikeb you obviously didnt read my rant on Benson. He played all of last year, there is no "first full year" excuse for RBs because they ALL split time. LT, Jackson, LJ, Willie Parker, etc, all of them split time, QBs dont, Rex has one full year plus a handful of other games (3 this year plus a few here and there from seasons past amid injuries). So Benson has actually had longer to prove his worth.....all of last year, most of the year before (after he ended his holdout) and 3 games this year (which is actually longer than Rex, oh wait I already said that)...the fact that he starts or not is irrelevant becuase all RBs split time. If Rex split time as the QB for the past 2 years then yeah you have an arguement but he didnt because Qbs dont split time. I hope you understand what I'm trying to say. Its not rocket science and if any of you still dont get it you have issues.
September 28, 2007
#87 Phil from SATX said . . .PO'd: Could you please refrain from the BS "If any of you don't get it you're stupid" or some such crap? It adds nothing to the convo. Fact is Benson didn't start all of last season. He held his own during the last part of the season and thus the coaching staff thought he would be able to handle the load. You think his slow start (even though he had a decent game against KC) this season proves something about him. I do not. You think he sucks and want Thomas Jones back. I do not. I think our O-line has sucked and therefore he's not gotten into a rythym. I'm on the record multiple times saying I would stop backing Benson when he shows a propensity to fumble. He's getting close, but I don't think he's there. The fumble against KC was caused by the ground and thus it wasn't a fumble. The fumble against Dallas was not a fumble. His knee hit the ground and he let his guard down. I have faith he won't do that again. However, if he does, I'm perfectly willing to lament our RB situation since AP has fumbled twice too and Wolfe probably can't be a starter. There is no Brian Griese waiting behind Benson. That's part of the reason I'm willing forgive Benson, especially this early in the season and the awful O-line play/play calling. Benson can move people, but not piles of people.
September 28, 2007
#88 Pissed Off said . . .Hey PO'd, not to get into a battle that isn't mine, but the flaw in your reasoning is in the fact that Benson actually had a very good year last year despite not being the starter and having limited carries. You can't say that a 4+ yard per carry was poor, and he had NO fumbles in the regular season. In all, he contibuted to 1 turnover in all of the 2006/2007 season while having a very respectable average. Rex could not say the same about his year last year, and he got 100% of the plays.
You're trying to raise a comparison with Benson and Rex, and the fact is, Benson has been MUCH more consistent is his early NFL career than Rex was. And also I am very tired of hearing about how some 100 yard rushing games (with a 4+ average) get to be labeled "lackluster" - what bullshit that is. The only way you can call a hundred yard rushing game "lackluster" is when 50 of those yards come in one play AFTER the game has been decided (see Marion Barber 2 weeks in a row). Against KC, the longest run was 13 yards, so those 100 yards were hard fought for and well earned.
I'll be very happy with a 100 yard, no turnover game from Benson no matter what.
Lackluster my ass.
September 28, 2007
#89 Pissed Off said . . .Never said you're stupid if you dont get it, i said you have issues, but from your post it might neccessary to state again.... Benson not starting doesnt mean shit, he played for the last 30 or so games didnt he, that was his chance to prove he's good. Rex hasnt had a chance to play in 30 games...PERIOD, thats the bottom line. Benson has had longer to prove his worth. Dont care if you agree with me or not but I'm just trying to get you to understand the point which is getting hard.
The words lackluster and your ass shouldnt be in the same sentence BA. Its not your fight but feel free to help mike out he's having a tough time getting the point. Benson hasnt had a breakout game yet in 30 or so games has he? Didnt think so.
September 28, 2007
#90 Phil from SATX said . . .Rex has had quite a few, he's just not consistent.
September 28, 2007
#91 mikebdot said . . .Mikeb, give it up, he just don't get it. I do, and you're right. PO'd doesn't realize that over 4 yards a carry is actually GOOD. But DAMN, he likes him some sub-50 quarterback ratings!
MMM MMM Good!
September 28, 2007
PO'd: Name some "break out games" for Grossman and we can discuss. A 100+ QB rating game does not qualify as a "break out" game. Especially when the other teams have turnover ridden games giving you the ball inside the 50 yard line numerous times, thus allowing you more opportunities at scoring a TD (and thus making your rating higher). A "break out game" for anyone doesn't MEAN anything either if they don't go on to do anything else. It becomes a blip, a "false hope for the future" as judged by time. "break out" implies sustained success. Grossman certainly hasn't had that. Most careers are judged by "break out" seasons, but if you want to go that route, look at Moose's production after his "break out" year of '04. Seems like that was just a 'blip' too.
Benson never had an opportunity to have a break out game as Thomas Jones was the starter.
In 2005, Benson carried the ball more than 10 times in only 3 games, 16 carries for 49 yards in week 2, 14/79 in week 9 vs. NO, and 12 for 50 in week 10 vs. SF.
In 2006, he played fairly well as the backup, averaging the same yards/carry as Jones.
In 2007 the line has played terribly. Even AP had 6 carries for 17 yards. What the hell do you want from him besides two less fumbles?
Shit, what games were "break out" games for Jones? He's had 2 games above 150 yards rushing. One in '02 with AZ against Seattle where he had 173 yards on 24 carries. A Seattle team that ranked 32nd in yards/carry defense (4.88). That was followed by no other games that season with 100+. By the way, that was in his third year as a pro. One 100+ yard game that season and that was it. He only played in 9 games that year...due to injury perhaps?
Then a 152 yard performance against GB in game 2 of '04. That very same GB team gave up 4.59 yards/carry (27th in league that year).
Lot's of good those "break out" games did for that guy.
If Benson doesn't have any 150+ performances this season, then we can talk about him being a "bust" or "unproductive" or whatever else one wants to call him. I'm not saying I think he'll do that, just that I'm withholding judgment, sort of like with Grossman this year. I would have gone another week or two to withhold judgment, but I think Lovie made the right move, use Detroit as a tune-up for Green Bay. Hopefully it works out that way.
September 28, 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.