The Kansas City Chiefs were the subject of HBO's brilliant documentary series HARD KNOCKS this summer and two things were evident. (1) Herm Edwards is basically the sidekick in an Al Jolson picture and (2) The team sucks. Sucks. I mean sucks. How bad? So bad that they actually signed an ex-Arena Leaguer to the 53 man roster at wide receiver after him being in camp only two weeks. So bad they've brought Kyle Turley back from NFL purgatory to start at right tackle. So bad their NCAA-elite kicker Justin Medlock has already been cut after one week. So bad...well Damon Huard starts at quarterback for them...one purpose now. Oh and the defense...
The Bears are going to win Sunday, no doubt about that. But look for the Bears to put on one of those beatens they were so fond of in early 2006. Deep routes, smothering defense, brilliant special teams...etc. Here's the gameplan:
PLAY-ACTION ON EARLY DOWNS
Some folks asked how we could criticize Ron Turner after week one and the answer is simple. If I know the play is coming, then the professional football strategist knows the play is coming. That's why the early down run game stumbled. The Chiefs believe if they stop the run, they stop the Bears. Show them that isn't so.
STOP LARRY JOHNSON
This is probably the last time LJ won't be at full strength this season and he looked like a shell of himself Sunday against the Texans. Shutting down Johnson means the game goes into the hands of Damon Huard, the least mobile quarterback since Sean Salisbury. Dinner. Is. Served.
GONZO CAN'T GO GONZO
Every team in the league saw what Antonio Gates did Sunday and every team in the league will try to mirror that. Covering elite tight ends with Archuleta and JCB (Jersey City Brandon) should not be an option. Get Ricky Manning Jr. out there more if necessary.
The hardest game on the sixteen game schedule is out of the way. Now the Bears move forward and embark on their campaign for the Super Bowl 42 throne.
#2 Phillip said . . ."The Bears are going to win Sunday, no doubt about that."
Why would you go and say something like that? This is the NFL and we all know what can happen on any given Sunday. Sure the Bears will be looking to maul the chiefs after a tough week 1 loss, but that's no guarantee that Chicago will win - especially with some of the performances we've seen outta Mr. Grossman.
Hopefully the Bears can establish some sort of running game before we go assuming anything, especially blow out victories.
September 12, 2007
#3 Phillip said . . .I knew there was a reason I packed all that Polish sausage and old style in my checked bag. How the hell the thing, and my -ticking- Bears Flavor Flav clock made it through security on the anniversary of 9/11 I'll never know.
Tell you what I do know: I'm with you that we're probably gonna win this one, but I really am nervous about jinxing things. Sure would be great for a shutout and 150+ passer rating from Sexy Rexy to shut up some of those Sun Times jerks.
September 12, 2007
#4 Max said . . .Also re: Gin from the last post: I know, I know, I really thought long and hard about some Italian beef, but I can get that in New York! The only reason I walked from North and Clybourn to Lou Malnati's at Sheffield was so that I could get somma that sweet, sweet deep dish, but they were closed. Sad face.
September 12, 2007
#5 Rancid said . . .I like our chances on Sunday. Our D is good, but we need to put together some longer drives together. I mean like 8-12 play drives. My brother threw a stat at me that the longest drive we had on Sunday was something like 6 plays. . . SIX. thats it and that is pathetic.
In regards to injuries, we basically have the same D we had when we went to the Super Bowl, but losing Mike Brown is still hard. We all knew he wasnt goin to last the whole season, but that doesnt mean we didnt dream he could stay healthy and there is still pain now that hes gone. He has been Mr. Chicago Bear for the past 6 years. He won us back to back games in 2003. They always say that if Urlacher is the heart of the Bears D then Brown is the soul.
This is most likely his last year as a Bear and that makes me very sad.
Bear down, and bury the chiefs
September 12, 2007
#6 GP said . . .We have a hell of a team and Ron shouldn't have to adjust much against these guys so in my opinion we should be great. If we can shut down the running of a healthy LT, LJ should easier still in recovery mode. We do need to watch them using him as a receiver though. Overlooked in many circles is that fact that we shut down LT's run but he had 7 receptions for 51 yds. I think our main concern with LJ will also be his receptions (he had 7 for 44), not his rushing. At least he doesn't throw touchdown passes. Freakin fullback option. If the Bears are half as pissed as I am, KC is in for a serious whuppin.
September 12, 2007
#7 Phil from SATX said . . .I'm looking at 3 things in this game:
Darwin Walker: He'll give us a better pass rush than Dusty, but can he help us shut down Larry Johnson the way we shut down LT?
Greg Olsen: If he's on the field, Rex should have his full complement of weapons. I'm not a big Rex fan, but I do think that he's used the tight ends pretty well.
Devin Hester: Only 1 return attempt last week -- what's up with that? Was the Chargers punt coverage that good?
Anyway, if we can't light up the Chiefs at home, it's time for a serious re-evaluation about our expectations for this season.
September 12, 2007
#8 Pissed Off said . . .Great analysis by Rancid and GP. Especially liked GP's last line: if we can't beat this team, then the Bears aren't who we thought they were. I think the biggest factor in this game is Rex/Ron's confidence in the fact that we're not going against a SD defense. It will loosen up both the game plan and Rex, and the kid plays so much better when he has confidence and especially when good things happen early. Look for RT to call a game that makes good things happen early.
Any word on whether GO Bot's suiting up?
September 12, 2007
#9 Coxy said . . .Shady you are an idiot, Im not going to break down why but it should be fairly obvious.
Everyone else makes good points. But seriously there is still some mention on here about Rex and wether or not he'll be OK. Keep talking people, Rex will continue to prove you wrong. I am too tired to continually show evidence that Rex IS good.
September 12, 2007
#10 jeff said . . .KC blows. Their receiving core is brutal. We had Eddie Kenison (sp?) about a decade ago and he was old then. They have a career backup at QB. LJ is out of shape.
I like the Bears -12. They sure got ripped in the press for a game that wasn't too bad against arguably the best team in the nfl. Notice arguably. Any other defense in the league would have lost 31 - 3 given their field position caused by fumbles.
September 12, 2007
#11 Phil from SATX said . . .bears open as 12 point favorites.
September 12, 2007
#12 Pissed Off said . . .Should be the coming out party for the 2007-2008 Bears - offense, defense and special teams. The opener was a coming out party for the defense alone.
It's Homecoming, gonna be a great party, Bears 41-6. BTW - 12 point favorites show that Vegas and the smart money knows how good the Bears are, even if everyone else doesn't (and remember that line factors in the loss of MB/DD, despite a few folks who think those injuries mean the season's now over).
September 12, 2007
#13 jeff said . . .-12 is a favorable line considering we're 0-1 but someone knows how good we are. Whats the line on the SD at NE game?
Like I said yesterday, I am still pissed we didnt beat the chargers. Had we not had as many turnovers as we did, mainly the two fumbles, I still think we win. Beating the shit out of KC will feel good and I hope to God it makes me forget the SD game. I dont think it will but I hope it does. I also hope I dont have to wait till we rattle of 6 or 7 wins in a row to be excited again.
September 12, 2007
#14 Da Coach said . . .pats -4
September 12, 2007
#15 Phil from SATX said . . .Anybody participating in those Suicide Pools, I would strongly recommend you choose the Bears this week. Jinx or no jinx I just cannot see them losing this against a pathetic chiefs team. The chiefs might be worse then the raiders were last year.
Jeff I did watch the Hard Knocks Training Camp on HBO in Aug as well, great show! I know you mentioned they have a AFL player on the roster but that Sippio looked mildly impressive to me a few of the times I saw him.
September 12, 2007
#16 Mike said . . .PO'd, you're going to be psyched as shit by the end of the Chiefs game - say what you want about thinking beforehand that it won't mean anything, you're going to see the Bears clicking on all cylinders and that will open up the promise of this season. That's what I dream of - seeing those Bears of September 2006 and how much ass they kicked.
Remember that we still have these Bears on defense:
Brian Urlacher
Tommie Harris
Lance Briggs
Nathan Vasher
Peanut Tillman
Mark Andersen
Adawale Ogunleye
Alex BrownNot a shabby bunch. Later this year we can see who we'll add to that list - will it be Darwin Walker, Danieal Manning, Adam Archuleta? Others? We'll see.
Yes, you will be in a VERY good mood by Sunday night. And you'll be totally psyched up for the Cowboys. It's not going to be yawning through 6 wins - there's no not getting thrilled by any Bears win.
September 12, 2007
#17 Pissed Off said . . .The arrogance displayed by some of you is amazing. You're already looking past Kansas City to the Dallas game?!? That is a fool's exercise. But then again, lots of fools with narrow perspective populate this blog. I can guarantee you that Lovie and company are not looking past the Chiefs and respect them as an opponent. Any team with Larry Johnson on it is not to be taken lightly.
Bears 17
Chiefs 13September 12, 2007
#18 BRIANsong said . . .We'll have to wait and see.
I read David Haugh's article today about using AP to push Ced, maybe even starting AP to light a fire under Ced. He also questions Ceds passion. I cant disagree with that and even help but think he's the kind of guy who collects a paycheck, plays when he's called upon but doesnt really have the drive or passion to be all that he can. He will rely on his ability to keep him a job in the NFL for a long career but never will really emerge as a special standout back becuase he doesnt have the passion to do so. I hope I'm wrong but that article made me think about this.
September 12, 2007
#19 Phil from SATX said . . .Mike, we're fans, ya putz. Lovie's paid to prepare for the Chiefs.
September 12, 2007
#20 Phil from SATX said . . .Once again I have to come to Ced's defense. I watched him run for a bunch of years at Texas. Even though he was somewhat of an odd duck, he had passion aplenty when he hit the field. I know the NFL's different, and I know he's had a strange journey since he's been here - hasn't had a lot of backers in his corner, and I think his feelings have been bruised. However, I can't figure out how everyone has pegged him as this passionless player - don't you remember the second half of last year? Do you remember some of his runs in the playoffs, like when he had that rocket attached to his back that took him bouncing into the end zone? He's had one game this year, and he didn't perform well in it - again, NEITHER DID THE BEST BACK IN THE LEAGUE. Now they're talking about letting AP start, light a fire under him? That sounds like pure nonsense to me - he needs to be given the rock and given room to run, with a game plan that loosens up the box. Last year was not that long ago, is his failure/injury in the Super Bowl all anyone can remember here? Give the guy a little bit of a break. And I haven't read Haugh's article, but I will just say this - Haugh's gotten awfully negative since last year. Don't know what's going on with him.
September 12, 2007
#21 mikebdot said . . .Once again I have to come to Ced's defense. I watched him run for a bunch of years at Texas. Even though he was somewhat of an odd duck, he had passion aplenty when he hit the field. I know the NFL's different, and I know he's had a strange journey since he's been here - hasn't had a lot of backers in his corner, and I think his feelings have been bruised. However, I can't figure out how everyone has pegged him as this passionless player - don't you remember the second half of last year? Do you remember some of his runs in the playoffs, like when he had that rocket attached to his back that took him bouncing into the end zone? He's had one game this year, and he didn't perform well in it - again, NEITHER DID THE BEST BACK IN THE LEAGUE. Now they're talking about letting AP start, light a fire under him? That sounds like pure nonsense to me - he needs to be given the rock and given room to run, with a game plan that loosens up the box. Last year was not that long ago, is his failure/injury in the Super Bowl all anyone can remember here? Give the guy a little bit of a break. And I haven't read Haugh's article, but I will just say this - Haugh's gotten awfully negative since last year. Don't know what's going on with him.
September 12, 2007
#22 Phil from SATX said . . .Check out Rex's second half stats:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/splits?playerId=4480
If he had thrown a TD pass (which was impossible since we turned it over twice, lost a possession on the punt, and then turned it over on downs after those three straight runs) his rating would have been over 100 for the second half. Rex played GREAT in the second half and nobody in the media seemed to notice.
September 12, 2007
#23 Pissed Off said . . .And another bunch of nonsense about the fact that he had his ball cap on, and that "usually means a player's done for the game." Huh? How hard is it for a player to put on his helmet? Maybe this is an unwritten rule in the NFL, if it is, it's a stupid one and it's not surprising that Ced wouldn't get it - he's that kind of guy. More much ado about nothing IMO.
September 12, 2007
#24 jeff said . . .Playing devil's advocate, maybe Ced does know its an unwritten rule about putting your hat on. Maybe he plays dumb on purpose. I dont know man, hopefully some questions will be answered this week so we dont have to talk about Ced.
Even if Rex had thrown a TD it wouldnt have been a big deal, his rating for the whole game probably wouldnt have been over 100 and thats what media looks at. Had he thrown a TD I dont think I would have any different feelings about him this week anyway. I think he played good last week. Had a little fumble that we recovered not in a big situation, no big deal. Threw one pick that was Berrians fault. Granted that drive could have ended in some points but his overall performance was by no means bad but thats just it with the Rex haters, they think if he doesnt have a 100 rating with 2+ TDs he's a bum. Lots of QBs have mediocre, but not bad games. Rivers had one of those days too and ooohh he's a big Pro Bowl QB who had a mediocre day??!?!
September 12, 2007
#25 Mike said . . .i came out sunday positive on rex. i thought he was okay sans the fumble. if he's smarter with the ball, he'll be fine.
September 12, 2007
#26 StartOlsen said . . .Cedric Benson is precariously close to being labeled a bust, particularly given that he was picked 4th overall in the 2005 draft. He DOES look lazy and disinterested out there. If I didn't know any better I'd think that fellow Texas alumnus Ricky Williams gave him some of his weed. If the Bears don't have a credible running game, then they are also-rans in the NFC this season. That is statement of the brilliantly obvious, but it is very true and worth repeating. Adrian Peterson is NOT the answer, so lets not go there. Neither is my fellow NIU alumnus Garrett Wolfe.
Rashaan Salaam, Hurtis Penis and now Cedric Benson.... Groan.
September 12, 2007
#27 Phil from SATX said . . .hey, maybe all the stupid overreactive undue criticism of Ced will take the place of the criticism of Rex. I'd rather have everyone bashing Ced than our fragile QB I guess... to put a positive spin on a bunch of bullshit.
September 12, 2007
#28 mikebdot said . . .Thanks, StartO, I needed that. Is Mike kind of like our new version of PisB, but one masquerading as a quasi-Bear fan? One just wonders. And I'm okay with shifting the stupid focus to Ced - maybe next game we can have national conversation about how Ced was looking down at his shoes when he should have been watching the game and cheering on his teammates. He's so damn kooky!
Rex was not the reason we lost to SD, and that's good news - progress. (That's not a back-handed slam, or damning by faint praise - if Rex can avoid being the the reason we lose games, we may just win a Super Bowl this year).
September 12, 2007
#29 Phil from SATX said . . .Phil: Well, if other people are the reason we are losing that still means we're not winning, so there would be no solace there...
My opinion is that SD's win was fortunate for them and unfortunate for us. It happens. I really don't think there was a "superior" team on the field. We just happened to have 2 fumbles and the punt issue. I hope that Turner learned his stupid play calling lesson, but, seriously, what coach calls the same play three times in a row and brings in a different back on 3rd down to do it and puts the first one back in on 4th? Just stupid.
September 12, 2007
#30 Megan said . . .You're right, Good Mike, (feel the need to distinguish there), I guess the point I was trying to make is that if Rex is playing like he did in that game, we're going to win nearly all of those. That loss was a pure fluke, and to your comment about neither team being better, I will comment that about halfway through the second quarter, I remarked to my son that "well, at least it's clear that we belong on the field with these guys." Which I wasn't entirely certain of going into that game, with their mystique, their 14-2 record, their LT, their Shawn Merriman, their coveted AFC affiliation. Bottom line, we're definitely as good or better than them, even though we lost. (I know, sounds like classic Loser Talk - what can I say?)
September 12, 2007
#31 Shady McBears Fan said . . .Phil,
Honestly, it's not a bad idea to mix it up with different running styles. Ced reminds me of Ron Dane in some respects because he is like a frieght (sp?) train barreling through tackles rather then looking for holes and bobbing/weaving like |Sweetness did. I am not expecting Ced to run just like Payton, but he was good at mixing things up. In many ways that haveing AP AND Ced run, it would throw defenses off and give our running game a better chance.September 12, 2007
#32 Max said . . .Why you gotta be a Jackass PO'd? You calling me an idiot because I'm not assuming a win Sunday? Is it because I don't have the confidence in Benson yet because of his gaudy performance last week? Is it because I believe our quarterback is STILL capable of playing terrible mistake filled football under the slightest pressure. Or is it because you're jealous I was the first to post?
Confidence is one thing, arrogance is another. Assuming wins leads to hubris, and hubris leads to a great downfall. You really think Lovie would tell his team "We're gonna win Sunday, no doubt about that." NO! he wouldn't, and neither should we.
If YOU'RE so sure the Bears are going to win Sunday, why don't you do some community service instead of watching the game and visit a retirement home. Maybe they can help you macramé yourself a pair or jean shorts...Jackass.
September 12, 2007
#33 jdawg said . . .Megan, i love that idea. It worked last year with Jones and Benson as a thunder/lightening type running offense. Start Benson and have him smash into a couple people then through AP in their to make some quick moves, show the defense something different, and then stick Benson back in to run them over.
As much as I love AP, Benson is the starter and should continue to get the majority of the carries. I just like AP or even Wolfe to come in as a change of pace to put the defense on their heels.
September 12, 2007
#34 Phil from SATX said . . .in the words of Borat:
I got nothing
NOTAnyway,
Mike Brown will be gone when either 1) he retires, or 2) Lovie quits.
Olsen will play this Sunday
Harris is a freak and our D (even minus DD and MB) is better than the SB unit
Our D will make sexy-time with both KC QB's
Look up Mike Brown's comments concerning D Manning
Rex takes a licking and keeps on ticking
Our O-line interior is still looking for their lunch in San Diego
That hat thing regarding Benson is bullshit. I can't believe some of the crap the media has to come up with.
Doug Buffone and OB remind me of those two grumpy guys in the balcony from the Muppets TV show.
oh, yeah...
the Bears are gonna loseNOT!
September 12, 2007
#35 Shady McBears Fan said . . .And Shady McDoofus, do you really think we're shaping the universe here by our comments about a certain win over the hapless Chefs? If so, the Karma Centurions will certainly applaud our boldness, our unshaking belief in our team, that makes us say, nay, scream from the rooftops, that
WE'RE GONNA RIP OFF THEIR HEADS AND SHIT DOWN THEIR NECKS!
Surely those same Meters of Karma will appreciate this WAY more than the mealy-mouthed musings of the politically correct "on any given Sunday..." and "hubris leads to downfall" bullshit.
Who's better, the Bears or the Chiefs? On the one hand... On the other hand... Man, this fence rail's going right up my ass...
Bears 41 Chiefs 3
(took away a field goal from the Chiefs from my earlier prediction just for you Shady) (but I do like your name)
September 12, 2007
#36 Phil from SATX said . . .Hope You're right Phil. I'd love to see a blowout. But I'd hate it even more if you and Jeff had to eat your words on Monday.
September 12, 2007
#37 Nicole is miserable in this blue city said . . .Shady, obviously! But you're asking me to temper my enthusiasm and confidence just so it won't feel as bad Monday if I'm wrong? It'll still feel as bad, so I rather be flying high today.
Also, I happen to know that PO'd prefers his jean shorts made entirely out of Nicole's Krispies. That way he can watch the game without getting up for snacks.
BTW, PO'd must be in a meeting or something. I feel certain he has something to say to you.
September 12, 2007
#38 Rancid said . . .Phil if you were witness to PO'd wearing crispie attire, that would be one for my album for sure and not a bad sales pitch either :) ~
September 12, 2007
#39 JB said . . .Many (many) years ago, in a fit of extreme desire to win an office pool where we picked gamewinners, I picked against the Bears in a game they were projected to lose big time. The Bears won. That was the least I have ever enjoyed a Bears win. I felt like a coward and a jackass. Since then, I don't give a shit who we're playing. I plan to watch them win and win big every week. Like Phil said, I hate life on Monday when they lose anyway. I won't ever be a pessimistic fan again. I have picked the Bears to win every game they have ever played ever since. With that said
Bears 33
Chiefs 9September 12, 2007
#40 Phil from SATX said . . .Shady...gaudy performance? i don't think that word means what you think it means...which is basically excessively showy, like gaudy bling...nothing about his performance was gaudy...unless you're being sarcastic, and it still doesn't really work. Please choose a different adjective to better express your point.
I watched the chiefs game last week, and they were absolutely dominated... by the Texans.... seriously. It's not that we shouldn't take them seriously, but we should have high expectations for abusing a potential door mat. We match up incredibly well against these guys. If it's not over by halftime I'd be shocked... I'll say 41-0. And if I'm wrong, what, do I get my forecasting rights restricted?
And remember, AP knows how to run the ball, he'll be viable down the road if and when we need it. And Negative Mike aka Debbie Downer...no one cares that you went to NIU...honestly, we could take a poll, and no one would care, so stop bringing it up.
September 12, 2007
#41 mikebdot said . . .JB, did I catch a Princess Bride reference?
Inconceivable!
September 12, 2007
#42 Nicole is miserable in this blue city said . . .Rancid: That is some funny shit right there.
September 12, 2007
#43 Al in WI said . . .Rancid- that's pretty funny. I have to admit I, too, had my moment of weakness. My ex-bf was an extreme Bears fan and after we broke up, this little part of me thought I wouldn't enjoy Bear victories because then he would be happy, too.
Someone smacked the stupid outta me and I quickly realized the Bears victories are more important than any ex-boyfriend who wasn't worthy to keep around in the first place.
September 12, 2007
#44 Pissed Off said . . .To expand a little on Jeff's original post, I'd like to see some creativity from the offense. In other words spread the defense out, it makes it easier to see where the blitz's are coming from, and therefore who will be wide open. Also if Bradley, Davis, and Hester can't beat the 4th and 5th best d-backs on Kc we're in trouble. Also I'd like to see the shotgun on early downs, and different situations, we can even use some draw plays then. If you have the games on tape/dvd or just have a great memory, Walter scored some big td's on draws from the gun. It's a great play, and KC uses the same d scheme as we do, and we’ve all saw how effective draw plays can be.
My last thoughts on Benson: I hope you're right Phil, when you said he'd be in the Neal Anderson category. Neal was a one man gang, that could score from anywhere on the field via pass or run. He had elite speed and was a game breaker. His tragedy is that he came after Walter, and didn't last that long. But he was a great player and I don't use that lightly.
September 12, 2007
#45 Midway Monster said . . .Hey Mike RE: #28 I think the fact that we fumbled four times and were unable to overcome that is what made them superior, along with the fact that they won.
Shady you are now in the same unreadable category as Mike, I did read your response in #31 and thats the only one I read and the only one I will ready cuz your still an idiot. I watch because I like football even if I think we are going to win. Doesnt everyone have a team they think is going to win each week? Dumb ass. Saying we are going to win shows confidence in our team, not arrogance. I am confident we are good enough to win this game just like every other Bears fan, sorry if your not a fan. You negative like Mike. And regarding your post I will say this: "what you've just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul."
Thanks for the plug Phil, I do like the crispie shorts. I most certainly like to stay glued to the TV, and with the crispie shorts, to the chair as well. Sorry Nicole I dont think I have a pic of me in the crispie shorts, maybe I'll get one taken this sunday.
Damn Rancid #38 is perfect, all of it. I think I've done that once too and I've felt the same way.
I know I dont care that Debbie Downer went to NIU, were happy for ya. But I guess I didnt know he was constantly mentioning it cuz I dont read his trash anyway.
My prediction for the game
Bears 153
Cheifs 0
Whaddaya think of that Shady?September 12, 2007
#46 Rancid said . . ."any given Sunday", "I like our chances". Chances? Chances? ::Geesh::
Midway predicts a wide open, blow the doors off em game where the Bears win by 27+ points. Yeah that's right! Can't take it? Think I put the jix-wammy on it? well get out of the way and take a back seat. Its about time we get a bit arrogant around this site any ways. Bears 34, Chiefs 3.
--Midway--
September 12, 2007
#47 Shady McBears Fan said . . .Now I feel like a pus for saying 33-9. I thought it was a nice aggressive prediction at the time.
September 12, 2007
#48 Max said . . .OK go ahead and replace "gaudy" with "abysmal" for #31. As great as the Bears D played Sunday, the O left a lot to be desired. Am I the only one who is concerned about the lack of success from the running game? Sure the Chargers have a great D, but you'd think we'd be able to put some sort of running game together to prolong potential scoring drives. 6 plays? That's pathetic!
As for mixing up the play calling by adding more play-action on first down... mmm I dunno. Sure everybody knows the Bears are going to run the ball. The Bears know it. The fans know it. And the opponents sure as hell know it. Does that mean they should stop running on 1st down? NO! The key to offensive success is being able to run the ball EVEN WHEN THE D KNOWS IT'S COMING! Then and only then will the play action become effective. News flash, the run sets up the PA.
Bears fans all over the country have great expectations for this team Sunday, as well they should. But great expectations are one thing, assuming wins are another. If the team adopted some of the cocky attitudes on this site that are already looking to the 'Boys game, they'd be in some trouble. Luckily Lovie has more sense than that and will focus on the little things they couldn't seem to accomplish week 1 i.e. running the ball and not turning it over.
My biggest problem with Chicago sports fans, and fans in general, is that they are too polarized. They either react with way too much negativity and "Debbie-Downerness" or too much arrogance and entitlement. What happened to fair analysis and tempered enthusiasm?
Personally I'd love to see a Charger/Bears superbowl rematch. My name is Shady McBears Fan. You killed Mike Brown, prepare to die.
September 12, 2007
#49 Rancid said . . .Nice. . . Bobby Sippio has been activated by the Chiefs to replace Eddie Kennison so the former Arena League star will be available vs. the Bears
September 12, 2007
#50 Phil from SATX said . . .Lorenzo Neal, I do not mean to pry, but you don't by any chance happen to have six fingers on your right hand?
September 12, 2007
#51 jdawg said . . .Shady, loved your last line. Didn't love your analysis. Can someone else help? I have already made my case for the Bears being opposite to the norm - Pass Sets up the Run for this team. I think I was shouting at Mopey Mike at the time. Maybe if we had the Cowboys line of the early 90's. Not this line, not with the defenses we'll ALWAYS see at the beginning of the game, you're gonna have to loosen 'em up first.
Anyone, a little help?
September 12, 2007
#52 Phil from SATX said . . .If I'm not mistaken we started off pretty slow in the run dept. last season.
As far as the pass setting up the run, SD was not the team to try and pull that off on. Everyone and their mother knew the two OLBs would have their ears pinned back for Grossman (think play two, as Grossman practically had a reverse-Alien-birth with the football).
September 12, 2007
#53 jdawg said . . .Right jdawg, but you still had to try it - those same guys in the box coming after Rex were there to stop the run too. They needed to burn those rushes with quick dump-offs (in front of the line of scrimmage, not behind) which would have turned into medium-long gains. Running right at that rush wasn't going to work.
September 12, 2007
#54 Max said . . .True, but I would have, as was stated before, like to have seen a little more play action. The Chargers are tough. You can't run inside because they're too strong there. You can't run outside because the OLBs are freaks. We did try some screens but 56 is faster than our RB's (not including Wolfe).
September 12, 2007
#55 Rancid said . . .for the record, I always like Lorenzo Neal until that blatant penalty and cheap shot on mike brown this past game. bitch move
September 12, 2007
#56 Phil from SATX said . . .Max - I feel the same way about Neal. But all the articles say he felt really bad about it. So that is supposed to make him less of an asshole. I'm not buying it.
September 12, 2007
#57 Al in WI said . . .I felt the same way, shades of Charles Martin, and the insult to injury was that it wasn't even called! And correct me if I'm wrong, that could have been viewed as a turning point in the game, because the great Mike Brown was about to separate Philip Rivers soul from his body when that happened. And that led to the first TD, right?
September 12, 2007
#58 mikebdot said . . .News: Ruben Brown didn't practice with a shoulder problem. Just an FYI.
Also apparently so trash in SD have been mouthing off about Benson, and Grossman the last few days. Our guys are not happy, I feel this is an attempt by the chargers to get them pissed so we beat down their division rival. My advice is this, win a f'ing playoff game some time before the decade is out and I'll take you seriously!! Bears 31 Chiefs 6
Pats 27 Dolts 13September 12, 2007
#59 StartOlsen said . . .Phil: Brown's injury led to the second TD, which was scored on the very next play. If they had called holding it would have been 1st and 20 from the 23 yard line. They were moving the ball pretty well during the previous plays, but not starting with 1st and 20...
September 12, 2007
#60 Dave said . . .funniest posts of the thread (Im beginning a watch on this):
Phillip and his Flava Flav Bears Clock
1. PO'd at #44
2. Mike and Shady becoming the site whipping boys
3. Mike saying "Maybe they can help you macramé yourself a pair or jean shorts"Phil thanks for the good post defending Ced. Im so sick of hearing him bashed. If he is sucking after 6 games Ill have to agree.
Mike calling him a bust was a warning indicator for mild retardation that may have gone undiagnosed in childhood.
September 12, 2007
#61 big rob said . . .There's not going to be a Bear-Charger S/B.
You offense sucks shit. Fuckin Benson is the biggest pussy to play running back. If he ain't hurt, he's fumbling. The guys a chump.
And Rex, well what can you say. He's still Rex. Son-of bitch can't even get the center to qb exchange right, and when he does, he throws an INT.
Not to mention Mike Brown the terminally fuckin injured asshole he is. And who'd you bring in to back him up? Another guy who can't stay healthy.
Good move Lovie
September 12, 2007
#62 JB said . . .ahhh....it's about time Dave showed up to give us all a good chuckle... Now Dave put your helmet back on and go play in the corner with your blocks... internet time is over....
September 12, 2007
#63 Dave said . . .Phil, I agree with you that it was a turning point in the game. It was 7-3 at that point, and MB was about to stick LT for a 3 yard loss in the backfield. Let's say Neal doesn't take the cheap shot or if it gets called...we have a much better shot at holding them to 3 there...10-3 is much different than 14-3.
Dave...really? Really? You decided those comments were worth posting? I feel sorry for the people who have to associate with you day to day...it's bad enough on the net.
September 12, 2007
#64 The Pack is Back said . . .big rob: you're telling me internet time is over? Shit when is it over for your fatass?
Hell, you and most of your Bear blow hard butt buddies are on here all fuckin day.
September 12, 2007
#65 mikebdot said . . .There really shouldn't be any reason to "set up the run" and besides, the running game is by far superior to the passing game. grossman can't even see the rush coming, how will it help to pass more? That's just asking for some fumbles from the qb, as proven thoughout his entire lengthy career. In fact, that's alot of the reason his extremely long career has so few starts. He's blind.
September 12, 2007
#66 StartOlsen said . . .PIB: Favre almost handed the game to the Eagles in the fourth quarter by fumbling the ball. Then the Eagles were flagged for holding ruining their chance at a game winning field goal attempt...then the GB punt was muffed two series later resulting in a 6 yard "game winning drive" of three running plays. Go Favre! Woooooo!
Are you aware that Favre has 139 fumbles in his career (including yesterday's) losing 62 of them?
September 13, 2007
#67 Rancid said . . .Dave is it hard to walk with that cock wedged in your ass?
September 13, 2007
#68 startOlsen said . . .This is the first time I have directly responded to Dave. And it's just to say that I am actually proud of the fact that I have a job where I can "be on here all fuckin day" and no one cares and I still get paid. Is that supposed to be a bad thing?
In all honesty I like having Dave and PIB here. It's hard for people to say too much rotten stuff about Ced or Rex when they realize they would be agreeing with one of them. So it has a nice unifying quality.
Also, I usually feel a lot more intelligent after reading their attempts at witty comments or great comebacks which inevitably involve me having sexual relations with either another poster/a relative/or animal of my choice. It almost gets me to the point where I have to challenge them to a fight in the locker room after gym class, but I don't want detention so I've kept my cool so far.
September 13, 2007
#69 Shady McBears Fan said . . .Rancid are you trying to tell me not to "sink to their level" and call them assfucking fudgepackers?
Not to point out that they probably have bruised egos from when their mommas slapped their hands for fingering their sisters?
Not to refer to the nuts slapping their chins?
Their fantasies of giving Favre a rim job?Damn it.
You must be a high school guidance councilor or something.
The difference between the two is that Dave cracks me up occasionally. "Pack" is just fucking stupid, nothing clever, and the faulty logic is annoying and lame.It is nice to have a job that allows me to blog at my desk. I feel bad that Dave can only get on the net at the public library, after a long day of shoveling shit. If you need extra cash, you can come shovel my driveway.
September 13, 2007
#70 Goosey said . . .Ouch.
Did anyone else here about Rivera talking shit about the Bears and calling Rex Grossman a "mental midget"?
Fucking guy. Now I know why Chicago got rid of this douche. Coordinate these nuts in your mouth Ron Rivera, I've lost my respect for you.
September 13, 2007
#71 Shady McBears Fan said . . .You guys are all fucking gay. I am serious. I can't belive some of you actually get on this stupid blog thing every day and write stupid crap to people you have never met. You remind me of 16 year old girls. You all need to get a life. Why dont you get off your lazy fat ass and clean the house for your wife once in a while before she leaves your dumb ass for someone with half a brain. I've seen your type hanging around bars watching football every Sunday wearing your synthetic clothing (those jerserys actually look ok on toddlers) with your beer guts sticking out. I guess you do this because you have no real friends because nobody wants to be seen with you.
September 13, 2007
#72 Max said . . .Hahaha! Goose you HAVE to be a chick. If not, that would be scary.
I do plenty of housework thank you, and I happen to think my synthetic jerseys are rather flattering. I'm not a psychologist by any means, but it sounds like you have bigger issues than with us sports bloggers.
September 13, 2007
#73 Rancid said . . .Goosey. . . you posted on this blog. . . so arent you becoming the person you are blaming us to be??
And i actually im unemployed. (that might make it worse) but since i have no job, i do clean up the house. . . and do the dishes. . . and the laundry. . . and go to job interviews and class. . . its like im a college, stay at home dad, without the kid. (Well my girlfriend has a bunny, so does that count? She treats it like its our kid.)
Bear down. Im happy posting on this site everyday and interacting with other bear fans and even the occasional, yet persistant, douche bags.
September 13, 2007
#74 BRIANsong said . . .StartOlsen - Nothing I said was aimed at you, I've just been at this a while and I'd much rather make a joke and make someone look stupid than just call them a "assfucking fudgepacker" which by the way is kind of redundant. You can't have one without the other. Regardless, any offense was intended to be aimed at Dave (who by the way I believe is Patriots fan , if Dave would help by verifying this I'd appreciate it) and PIB, not yourself. I've enjoyed your comments since you've started posting.
September 13, 2007
#75 Coxy said . . .I agree with Goosey. After all, sports are gay. Surfing the internet and wives...uber-awesome.
September 13, 2007
#76 Phil from SATX said . . .I am liking this banter between the Chargers and Bears. It seems like the Chargers want to help us out by running their mouths about Grossman and Bensen. They seem to be fired up. Bears are going to smoke KC. I am looking past KC to Dallas. Actually Dallas' D sucks, I guess I am looking past to week 7 against Eagles. Except the Packers even beat them so that shouldn't be a game either. Maybe Seahawks week 10, are they good this year? NA...lets just look past everyone to the Saints, in the final week.
September 13, 2007
#77 Phil from SATX said . . .Yeah, Coxy I agree - this team needed to have something to rally around, and with Rex and now Ced being the most maligned members of the team, it's great that the rally is around them. Pretty amazing that the Chargers' linebacker called Ced soft - after witnessing his thus far short NFL career, I would have to call him one of the hardest hitting backs in the league. Still, thanks Chargers, I'm looking forward to seeing an angry Ced take the field on Sunday. Same with Rex. And speaking of Rex, he really did keep his cool last week on the field, and he did look ready to bring the team back, if the backs hadn't aborted drives.
I'm really looking forward to Sunday, and to redemption. (plus it's my birthday weekend, so they gotta win, and win big).
Shady, you're all right, stick around, you got some class, even if you have fear of sticking your neck out. Goosey, Dave and PisB don't really bring much to the party, although Dave and even PisB can be funny at times. I'm getting more like PO'd, don't really read or react much to the rantings of non-Bear fans.
Man, Sunday can't get here fast enough.
September 13, 2007
And speaking of Ron Rivera, wasn't it a little strange that this guy was supposed to be ready for a head coaching position and despite many interviews he couldn't even nail down a lateral move? There must be something going on there - does he just not interview well or what? I know that after not getting any of those head coach jobs it was a little late, likely he can at least be a defensive coordinator somewhere next year. Still, strange stuff.
September 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.