In journalism, you need a good hook and here’s one for Bears fans: if the Chicago Bears win Sunday they’ll be one game behind in the wildcard race at 5-5.
Still I’m not ready to breakdown the Detroit Lions schedule – which has to be the league’s most difficult down the stretch with the Giants, Cowboys, Packers twice and Chargers on the road. I’m not ready to worry about the New York Giants who face a tough two-game road trip to Chicago and Philadelphia and end against a Patriots team possibly playing for an unbeaten season.
I’ll stay focused on the Chicago Bears team that has to win the game Sunday they have failed to win all season long. Coming off a wonderful win in Green Bay, they let Adrian Peterson light Soldier Field on fire. Coming off the miracle drive in Philadelphia, their offense took the bye week seven days early. Now coming off the life-support touchdown pass by Rex Grossman, the Bears must go into hostile coffee country and beat a Seattle Seahawks team that’s terrific in their own building.
The questions are many. Are the Bears capable of stringing together back-to-back wins for the first time? Is the Chicago defense allowing less than 13 points a game over the last three the defense we’ve been waiting to see all year? Can the offense be consistent for the entirety of a ballgame?
Debate can be had (and I know it will) but the questions will each be answered Sunday. If the Bears win, they’ll find themselves in the thick of the NFC playoff race. A loss relegates them to the role of spoilers – undoubtedly needing to go perfect the rest of the way to even have a shot. Sunday is the Super Bowl. Every Sunday is from now on. And just like the last Super Bowl, winning is going to have a lot to do with how #8 plays.
#2 Phillip said . . .First! Yes!
November 13, 2007
#3 Phillip said . . .Well, I for one think it's been a while since we've seen a nice night game. I'm looking forward to the win, because I don't want to think about what the other side of the coin would mean.
First!
November 13, 2007
#4 Bill said . . .Oh that's embarassing. I didn't know my first comment and posted. Anyway. Bear down. I've got a big stack of cigars that I want to be smoking after we make the playoffs this season. Dream big, I say.
November 13, 2007
#5 Shady McBears Fan said . . .Phillip - it's not a night game anymore - they got "flexed" to a 3:15 (CST) start.
November 13, 2007
#6 Max said . . .Absolutely no looking ahead here as this game will most likey define the rest of the season for the Bears. Both teams have struggled to find consistancy and put together back-to-back wins.
Seattle, much like Chicago, has struggled early in the season with an inability to establish a run, however, but they looked strong at home againt a weak 49ers team (with no offense) Monday night. I think the key to this game Sunday, as always, will be creating turnovers, getting after Hasselbeck and stopping the run - not neccesarily in that order. Bottom line: Somebody's gotta make a play.
This upcoming contest should be a heated match-up given the recent history of these teams and what a loss would mean to either side. I want to come out and make a BOLD prediction on how I want this game to turn out, but I'll need to keep drinking my kool-aid this week before that happens.
Lovie needs to take his lucky coin out this week.
Heads: Grossman starts
Tails: Griese sits
Kidding. Here's to going streaking.
November 13, 2007
#7 jdawg said . . .I was a big supporter of Rex. I hope he starts this game and does well. . . but if he doesnt do well, we have to look at Orton.
I dont care what he did in 2005 other than the fact he won 10 games. He has had 2 years to learn and we might as well see what he has if we have been eliminated from playoff contention.
This is a big game. I hate Seattle, I hate Hasselbeck, (hes a former packer). . . i hate seahawks. I hate the fact that i requested off the afternoon because it was originally a night game, and now i might have to work bbecause they flipped it. damn NFL network.
Start Rex, start A.P., startOlsen (ha that totally works) start Vasher if hes healthy, if not put in McBride, and lets fucking rock out, Bear Down, and hell, lets be a little positive . . . even if its not 100% realistic.
November 13, 2007
#8 RandomName said . . .When the SEX CANNON finishes with the Seahawks the camera will pan to the sidelines to catch Holmgren smoking a cigarette, with a far-away dreamy look in his eyes.
The Seahawks cheerleaders will be locked up and there will be extra security on the sidelines.
November 13, 2007
#9 Scott said . . .predictions anyone?
@ Seahawks
BRONCOS
GIANTS
@ Redskins
@ Vikings
PACKERS
SAINTS*wipes sweat off forehead .. maybe my post should just look like:
@ Seahawks
Predictions anyone?
i say win, DA BEARS
November 13, 2007
#10 Pissed Off said . . .Hope springs eternal.
In my opinion, Jeff, answers to your questions are: (1.) Yes, they're capable of stringing together back-to-back wins. I'm just going to be a sucker and believe that they'll do it this weekend. (2.) The defense is for real. They're back (I say with tentative confidence). (3.) Offensive consistency is another matter. I don't think they'll have that but if they have one or two big plays and play otherwise mistake-free then consistency doesn't matter as much.
Bears playoffs '07? Why not? Go Bears.
November 13, 2007
#11 Pissed Off said . . .number 44, 46 and 48 from the last thread were not me. I'm sure they were Mike though some of you bought it by your responses so I'd like an apology from those who thought they were me. Mike is having conversations with himself on here. MIKE JUST SHUT UP ALREADY. I've asked that in the last thread, dont use my screenname you pussy, just shut up, dont make up screen names so it looks like more people agree with you. You are a loser, stop posting. And yes that is a personal attack, so what. SHUT UP DOUCHEBAG! find a new blog or visit with you mom upstairs about your stupid thoughts.
November 13, 2007
#12 said . . .I predict we'll be seeing some Seattle fans on here by the end of the day. I cant remember their names from last year but if we can make it three in a row I would love to shut them up again. A little upset that its inconclusive who will start. I really just want to know. Dont you think though that if he decides to start BG he will be on such a short leash that Rex will be in by halftime anyway? JUST WIN, thats all!
November 13, 2007
#13 Mike said . . .Ok it looks like Shady and BA Baracus were the only ones who fell for posts 44, 46 and 48 being me on the last thread. Thats OK though, they were a little extreme but it sounded like something I might say.
November 13, 2007
#14 Pissed Off said . . .Hey mabye I'll have another conversation with myself....Ok yeah. It makes me feel good to think someone actually agrees with me when I secretly know they dont, everyone else will just think that. I am 40 + years old and I am very mature...obviously
November 13, 2007
#15 Phillip said . . .#12 was me, really
November 13, 2007
#16 Mike is retarded said . . .@Bill, are you kidding? GAH! I picked this week to go camping in the catskills with the gf specifically because I'd get back in time for kickoff. Oh well.
November 13, 2007
#17 Bill said . . .Mr. PO'd, that makes 6 fake posts by fake fan Mike yesterday if you're keeping track. I have documented the numbers on the previous thread.
November 13, 2007
#18 Al in WI said . . .Phillip - yeah, the flex thing is messing up relationships all over the country I suspect.
A few threads back someone asked to fill in the blank - "I am ___________ about the second half." I said "curious" and that's how I'm approacheing this game. I can't get excited yet - there is too far to climb yet. I'm curious to see if they can string two wins together. Small steps.
November 13, 2007
#19 Midway Monster said . . .I watched Lovie's press conference yesterday, and there really is little doubt Grossman is going to start. He indicated that he "took notice," of Rex's performance and made it sound like regardless of Griese's health he's looking to make a move. I can't imagine him not starting Grossman given the need to keep momentum going and the reaction of the other players.
I'm really excited about this game Sunday, really for the first time since we knocked off the packers.November 13, 2007
#20 Rancid said . . .Battle in Seattle- I love it. You know Rex, Lovie & crew are doing the same math. Judging from last night, Seattle seems ready to make a run with their 24-0 victory over the hapless 49ers. We need to take em one game at a time and focus on decafing these coffee-heads. We need this one bad.
-- Midway --
November 13, 2007
#21 Northside Superfan said . . .This is a team that can win or lose any game. That makes them fun to watch. I love watching this team. Half the time I am jumping up and cussing out RT or a player, but it's still fun. Obviously we thought we'd be kicking everyone's ass on our way to Super Bowl repeat, but that's not what happened. It's still a fun year to be a Bear's fan. THere's been some great plays and most importantly, we beat the Packers. I love this team. Can't wait for Sunday!
November 13, 2007
#22 Pissed Off said . . .Well, I said yesterday that I didn't feel that Rex earned the start, and I still feel that way. Nonetheless, it seems like he probably will start, and that being the case, I have to admit I'm excited too.
Make no mistake, this is a tough, tough, tough game. Not just because there is a lot on the line, but because Seattle is a rough place to be the visiting team. Did anyone see the game last night? The crowd was a huge factor.
So, Rex...this is it. Your big moment (again). Do or die. Perform under pressure or spend the rest of the season on the bench.
Honestly, I can't even make a prediction yet...I'm too overwhelmed by the fact that the Grossman soap opera is still going on when we all thought it was over.
November 13, 2007
#23 Pissed Off said . . .Yeah Phillip it sucks, it was changed last week already. Maybe they are regretting it a bit now since the bears are 4-5 and the Hawks are 5-4 both coming off big wins looking for a playoff spot. It is a big game. But I guess in the grand scheme of the NFL outside of Bearimism or Seahawkism its probably not a marquee game.
I am totally with you AL, the only thing that would not make this the most exciting game for me so far this year will be learning that BG will start. That would be a huge buzzkill. I want Rex to start, I want this team fired up and clicking. The D looks real good but we are going to need Vash back this week, Seattle does a lot of 3 and 4 WR sets and Branch (their #1 WR) will probably be back this week. I havent been honestly this pumped for a game given the circumstances since probably leading up to the Dallas game. Its been a long, boring run without Rex in there in my opinion.
And yes Mike is retarded, we'll have to keep a tally of fake posts. I'll almost bet its more than 6 from the last thread though.
November 13, 2007
#24 B.A. Baracus said . . .With all due respect Northside I never thought it was over here for Rex and I dont think many did. We all know what Griese is and to think he wouldnt get hurt or under-perform and lose his job is naive given our history with QBs. I dont know if Rex will be re signed or if he even finishes the year as the QB starting for this team. Hell maybe Rex gets benched again for poor performance (though I doubt it since Lovie has now got to realize its wasnt all the QBs fault, this whole team has struggled even with BG) but right now I am taking it one game at a time. And now its VS Seattle.
BEAR DOWN!
November 13, 2007
#25 Phil from SATX said . . .PO'd,
From the last thread, I saw the posts under your name and must admit that I paused for a moment because they did not seem to be exactly written in your tone and writing style. Nonetheless, I still responded to them. However, I do not believe that you have been transgressed by me as I did not attack you personally, but rather, attached the "rah rah" nature of the tone of an imposter. The imposter owes you an apology. Needless to say, I will be more careful with my posts next time.
As for the person that is masquerading under other monikers on this site - Knock it off. That is straight up bullshit.
As for the game this weekend, the D Line along with blitzing will need to come up huge against Hasselcrack in order to disrupt the Hawks passing game. Hasselcrack had all night yesterday to pass against the Niners. That aspect of their offense needs to be shut down. The score has gotta stay close in light of the Bears' struggling offense.
As for the offense, Run Turner Run has got to get the ball in Olson's and Hester's hands. Spread the field and maybe, just maybe, Benson can get off some blocks for some decent yardage.
November 13, 2007
#26 Jakub said . . .Maybe we should just give up on this idea of Hester on O. Save for one great play by the late great Brian Griese, nothing much has worked with Hester. I worry that it distracts the already feeble-minded RT and he wastes plays setting up Hester - but whenever he's in there they are keying on him big time so nothing works. BB and Moose appear to be back and the combo of BB, Moose, and TEA Time plus RBs catching balls out of the backfield should be plenty, if only the idiot could figure out how to use them.
Why does it always look like our fake reverses would have worked if they handed to the reverse guy? Is that just an optical illusion?
Another thought - I think we need a better fullback. Jason McKie is no threat to run, and blocking doesn't seem to do much when you're trying to work with our pitiful run-blocking line. What about lining up Benson at fullback and Hester or Wolfe behind him? Let them guess which one's going to get it, plus it would give legitimate opportunities for Hester or Wolfe to catch dump-off passes or draw plays, which is where I think both would be best at - they both need a little space first to work their magic.
Regarding Hester, I say there's just too many moving parts in the wide receiver role for us to expect him to become good at it overnight. And I still can't believe that RT has been unable to craft a role for Wolfe in the way he was used in the preseason. He's worthless at taking handoffs, but he looked like gold in the short pass game.
Realize that the Benson at fullback is a pretty silly suggestion, but he IS a big guy and for a fullback he would be considered a good runner.
November 13, 2007
#27 mikebdot said . . .I must admit, when I bought tickets to this game, I thought the situation would be a bit different going in, but I am PUMPED nonetheless. My wife and I will be there on Sunday trying our best to drown out the best 12th man in the league. Hopefully it turns out better than the last time we played Seattle here.
November 13, 2007
#28 StartOlsen said . . .2nd and 6. Two plays after great PA pass to Moose. Fred Miller drops back to pass protect. Only problem? It's a running play. DE slides to the inside easily tackling Benson in the designed hole. Could have been a big gain if that DE wasn't there. Oh, yes, they're that bad.
It seemed that (conventional, i.e., not a fake reverse) play action worked every single time we did it last game. I've seen people rag on Turner for being in love with that, but it's one of the best weapons we have, especially since they're stacking the box or calling a run blitz nearly every single play. That will freeze Totupu every time. That is a guarantee. Olsen is going to have a big game. It has been foretold.
I think the fake end arounds are just to add to the number of looks we give. I don't think Turner is particularly interested in gaining yards. It's like they pay him for the number of formations/personnel packages we put in.
Where has Rashied Davis been? I haven't seen him doing anything besides falling down trying to catch kickoffs. Not that I'm complaining, just noticed the lack of his body on the field. Bradley didn't play much last game either. Lots of Gilmore + Clark. I think Olsen can't run block very well. On a related topic, why hasn't anyone mentioned how terrible our fullback is at creating more hole to run through? McKie has just plain sucked along with the rest of the line. He's stood up very often. Like a geek at the prom. Sad.
Bear Down.
November 13, 2007
#29 StartOlsen said . . .Ill take the heat. Ill admit, I'm a fool. Ill set myself up for dissapointment and ridicule.
Im glad Rex is back. I love Rex, love the highs he brings. My God, he throws a pretty ball. I love that he goes deep often. I love the guts, moxie, courage under fire.
Bash away at me, but Im excited for this. Welcome back, Rex.
November 13, 2007
#30 Bart Start said . . .Well, I guess I should've read all the posts first. The board is filled with optimism for our guy.
A note on the Orton arguement, that he won 10 games and thus should start... Didn't Rex go to the Super Bowl last year?Rex throws 3 picks @ Dallas, the media explodes on their own faces in orgasmic pleasure, and he loses his job. Peyton Manning throws 6 picks, everyone shrugs.
Fuckhead Romo the Homo throws like 8 picks against the Bills and comes out the golden boy. Bullshit.Rex has his bad days I know, but I think he is the most crucified, unfairly criticized player in the game. I believe it is because he is the QB for the Bears, which carries an inherent bias. If he played EXACTLY the same for the Cowboys or Niners, and went to a Superbowl, he'd be a fucking God in those cities and with the media. His bad days would be "charming" like Romo.
November 13, 2007
#31 Bart Start said . . .First off, the Bears fucking suck! Playoffs? Playoffs?
They are going to lose to the Seahawks, Giants, Redskins, Packers, and probably the Bronkos. Bears season 6-10 - best 7-9
They'lle be watching the playoffs on TV. No quarterback, no runningback, receivers suck big-time, lame defense, lame punt returns, terrrible head coach, old-ass offensive line. You think they are bad this year, wait til next year.November 13, 2007
#32 Phil from SATX said . . .First off, the Bears fucking suck! Playoffs? Playoffs?
They are going to lose to the Seahawks, Giants, Redskins, Packers, and probably the Bronkos. Bears season 6-10 - best 7-9
They'lle be watching the playoffs on TV. No quarterback, no runningback, receivers suck big-time, lame defense, lame punt returns, terrrible head coach, old-ass offensive line. You think they are bad this year, wait til next year.November 13, 2007
#33 Midway Monster said . . .StartO, let's not go too far here. I'm one of the ones wanting Rex back out there. But obviously he hasn't redeemed himself after that one half performance, which actually looked very similar to Old Bad Rex except for the great throw. And don't you think Peyton's earned a pass for a 6 int bad day? Romo keeps winning despite lack of protection of the ball, and unlike the normal Bad Rex he will come back after throwing picks to throw game winners.
I think that's what we all want to see out of Rex. Can he shake off turnovers to do something good at the end of games? I can deal with his bad mechanics and dumb picks if he keeps his head up and doesn't go into an autistic shell after things start going bad.
That is the single area of improvement I feel like I can reasonably hope for in his 5 1/2 games on the bench - the sense of "so F'ing what" if he does something dumb, he's got nothing to lose and maybe that will allow him to stay away from the glazed look and keep on firing, using the full 60 minutes. Be an emotional leader, let the guys know in the huddle that that play's done, let's go get it right on this one. I think he can turn into that kind of player, maybe right now.
Another positive sign - did you see him run for those yards? I liked that, remember that this is a guy who's only run for positive yards a few times in his entire career.
Bart Starr, can't disagree with that much that your saying, of course until I got to "lame punt returner" - wha? and of course the assumption that we will automatically lose to your overachieving do it with smoke and mirrors team. You may recall we beat your team once this year, and we'll do it again too - if there's one thing Lovie does well it's get the boys fired up about beating the crap out of you and your kind! SORRY!
November 13, 2007
#34 Pissed Off said . . .ya know... you guys get me to be too analytical. The more I think about it, the more Jeff is 100% right on. I say F&^$ the rest of the season. Let's just all have tunnel vision and look for some good ole knock-your-grandmother down the steps smash-mouth football. We just have to get over ourselves and the expectations we set last winter. There is only one game that matters and its Sunday.
-- Midway --
(Decaf the Coffee Heads)November 13, 2007
#35 Bill said . . .Bart, are you a packer fan, why are you here, or are you Mike in disguise again....in that case...again, why are you here.
StartO I love the optimism and the fire.
November 13, 2007
#36 Pissed Off said . . .The more I read and the more I think about it, the less I like Turner. Hester shoudl be a real weapon on offense, but I'm convinced the concept has overwhelmed Turner. He puts him in for a play here and there, and then he throws a quick WR pass at the line and Hester gets tackled for a loss. Wow - it must have taken a defensive genious to figure out that the few times Hester is in the game may be for him to get the ball. That play made me sick. And then I suspect Hester went on the bench.
I do think also that Turner tries too hard to set up plays and be ready for situations that may never occur. If the game were 8 quarters long we might get to the stuff he seems to be setting up - bu tby the time we're ready, the score and situation dictates something else.
And the score and situations are a direct result of him trying to set things up instead of executing a reasonable game plan.
If it's true about the Miller (or was it Tait?) pass blocking on a running play, we're worse than I thought.
Hey - Bart Start - good to see you again. You lost credibility obviously on your comment on Hester. In other words, your opinoins are as worthless as ever.
I will enjoy watching GB lose in the playoffs this year, as so many Packer fans enjoyed watching the Bears lose last year.
November 13, 2007
#37 Shady McBears Fan said . . .Phil you didnt just say that besides Rexs TD he looked like bad rex. You didnt. He was fine, he hadnt played in weeks, sure he fumbled a snap, first one all year, big deal. One pass was bad, that was it, the one where he led the WR too much on the right. Every QB has ONE bad pass per game. For gods sake people are we back to this shit already, micromanaging every fucking throw he makes. guess what, he's going to throw INTS, ALL QBS DO, hes going to get sacked, hes going to have an occassional bad pass, IT HAPPENS. Why is Rex under such a microscope with you guys?!?!
November 13, 2007
#38 Heywood Jublomey said . . .There's one small problem with putting Benson in at fullback, he can't block. If he were in at fullback to catch a screen pass or to pound the ball in short yardage situations, then I might understand. But chances are Turner will stick to the packages and sets they have studied and practiced since training camp. I've always thought McKie has been a solid fullback, but I'm not sure how to fully evaluate that position. It's interesting to hear Cedric and the O-line receive the majority of the blame while McKie has more or less flown under the radar.
Jakub, I've only heard great things about Qwest Field in Seattle. Apparently it was constructed scientifically to amplify the crowd noise and is still, amazingly, an open air stadium. Speaking of crowd noise, did anyone else notice that HUGE Seahawks fan they kept showing on TV holding a D and a fence? Jesus that guy must have been an XXXXXL. Needles to say it will be difficult conditions for the offense on Sunday, I wouldn't be surprised if they work on a silent count this week with deafening artificial crowd noise.
Mikebdot, I too have noticed that on more than one occasion had they ACTUALLY handed the ball off for the reverse, it would have gone for a big gain. I know trick/gadget plays are gimmicky, but if used in the right situations I think they could be very effective. As mentioned before, most defenses are keying in on Devin Hester because they understand his big play ability. Perhaps using a more inconspicuous player like BB or Moose would surprise a lot of people.
And StartO, I don't think you can compare Rex to Manning or Romo at this point. Both Romo and Manning have consistently performed well under pressure all season, so an occasional bad game is excusable. Rex on the other hand is a different story. He could be the most inconsistent QB I've ever seen, which often leads to frustration on the part of the fans and the media. However I think Rex has received more than his fair share of criticism and has handled it with class and professionalism. As far as who plays QB this week, only time will tell...
November 13, 2007
#39 Al in WI said . . .Could the Bears insert Hester at tailback, line him up some 30 yards behind the line of scrimmate, and have the qb take the snap, turn around, and loft a long backwards pass to hester, and then treat it like a punt return?
November 13, 2007
#40 Phil from SATX said . . .Bill, I think you are right on with your breakdown of Turner. I do think he out smarts himself too often. He's been hurt as much as anyone by the line play. With the o-line struggling he's needed to be more creative, and hasn't met that challenge.
Last night on PTI Ron Jaworski laid out the case pretty well. Paraphrasing "Absolutely Grossman should start. Griese is a what he is, a nice backup who can play well in stretches. But that's it, Grossman on the other hand is immensly talented and has the potential to be really good. I went through this myself; I was benched and it crushed me. But I got another chance and I approached the game with a different midset. He(Rex) did that yesterday, and will continue it."
I realize there is no debate here, but I just thought that was an interesting perspective.November 13, 2007
#41 Nicole is miserable in this blue city said . . .Shady, that was me talking about the reverse, but I still wonder if it's just looks that way because the defenders read the fake - if they handed off to the reverser maybe it would look totally different with coverage flowing that way.
PO'd, yes I sure did say that, I watched the second half again last night, you probably need to watch it too before you declare yourself redeemed on your 100% Rex support. He did not effectively move the team any more than BG had until a few minutes left in the game. At one point I thought he looked like a pony with red ants up his ass the way he was jumping around back there. He looked like the dude from Lord of the Dance. BG is obviously much better than him at PURPOSEFUL movements in the pocket - it was actually one of BG's strengths - he just couldn't follow that up with good enough throws that he put himself in a position to make. So it really did look very similar to me as early in the season. The difference was his attitude and his confidence, which he seemed to have somehow regained. And, of course, making the big play to win the game - that means a lot in my book.
You may remember that it didn't take a microscope to dissect Rex's poor play in the first 3 games - you could pretty much say everything he did was bad. Let's not rewrite history here. I am one of the ones supporting him back in there, but let's not oversell. He won the game, I want him back there, I hope that he continues the good playing like he did in the last 3 minutes of the game.
November 13, 2007
#42 mikebdot said . . .Last night I was watching ESPN at the gym and a graphic went across the screen "Turnaround in Chicago?"
I about fell off my machine but yes, that hook got my attention and my hopes up.GO BEARS!!!
November 13, 2007
#43 Nicole is miserable in this blue city said . . .Nicole: Your hopes depend on what an ESPN graphic says? That's kind of sad. But if that's what it takes, so be it.
Bear Down!
If we don't beat Seattle, I'll be a sad panda.
November 13, 2007
#44 Max said . . .No Mike- I don't base my bear enthusiam based solely on a tv graphic. It got my attention and the debate that followed had several good points that made me happy.
November 13, 2007
#45 Pissed Off said . . .I just said that if we lose this game and Rex plays bad, we stick in Orton cause we need to focus on the future and we have to know how this kid looks. That way we know what we need to be focusing on in the draft and in free agency.
I hope rex does awesome. I hope we blow the seapigeons out of the water. I just wanted to let me feelings about our QB situation be heard if this game goes south.
oh and start A.P. already. I'm still cruising on this bus and im telling ya our first stop is gonna be the 100+ rushing mark.
November 13, 2007
#46 Phil from SATX said . . .Shady, I think Phil was kidding about Benson at FB cuz it will never happen cuz he cant block to begin with, its a crazy idea that no coach would even consider doing but if he wasnt kidding, mixing that with his "rex was bad rex besides the TD pass" comment I might have to declare Phil insane. And that guy holding the sign actually said "SEA" "FENCE". But he was massive none the less.
BTW Phil have you ever watched Peyton Manning play, guess not cuz he is constantly moving his feet, like Rex does, its a good thing, he does it so he's ready at all times. Manning has said he does that to his benefit and so does Rex, "happy feet" can be good, unless you think Manning isnt. And your only supporting him now cuz he's back in there. Dont you remember when you stabbed him in the back after he got pulled, you claimed to be a big Rex guy all offseason but even you admitted that you flip flopped like a fish on that debate. I'm not trying to pick a fight but he doesnt need you on his bandwagon if all your going to do is stab him again in the back as soon as he throws a INT.
November 13, 2007
#47 Phil from SATX said . . .Max, here is how I think it should (and would) work. Let's pretend Rex does horribly. He would get yanked for Griese (if BG is ready to go - and am I the only one that had thoughts that that thing looked like a fake injury? How do they know it doesn't need an MRI?). Let's say we lose the game.
Then next week, BG and Orton share snaps with BG starting. By the following week (regardless of win or loss), Orton gets the start having 2 weeks of practice under his belt. In other words, no way do they just throw Orton to the lions without practice. (or at least they shouldn't).
That reminds me of something I was really pissed to read about. Lovie is crowing about how "injury can happen at any time, that's why we keep our backup ready." Now what a crock of shit that is, considering he only gave Rex heavy snaps during the bye week, and it was clearly ONLY because BG was struggling. He got lucky on the injury - had BG been playing well but got injured, no way would Rex have been ready, then what would he say? "Well it takes some time for the backup to get ready, so we didn't expect him to play well" or some such shit?
It reminds me of when BG was put in and Lovie proclaimed "he's ready" and BG says "I've never played with the first string and I don't really know RT." I'm convinced these guys don't know how to manage their backups. That's probably why they have no idea whether Orton is any good or not.
November 13, 2007
#48 mikebdot said . . .PO'd, just shut up, all right? That was asinine commentary. You can do better. Are you really comparing Rex in the pocket with Manning in the pocket? Get real dude.
November 13, 2007
#49 mikebdot said . . .In my opinion, the worst thing about Ron Turner is his inability to gain back yards lost on a false start/holding penalty. It seems like every offensive penalty or sack results in a punt. I can't remember a loss of 5+ yards where we actually gained a first down on the subsequent plays. Some of that has been due to drops, etc., but running plays on 2nd and 18 or passes with two TEs just isn't going to get it done. Figure it out you OC embarrassment!
November 13, 2007
#50 Phil from SATX said . . .The dancing in the pocket stuff: When Rex dances in the pocket, he constantly moves backwards, Manning doesn't do that usually, but when he does that's when he throws picks. I think the moral of the story is when any Pro QB has time to throw the ball, they play much better. If they're moving their feet AND have time and thus step INTO the throw, it doesn't matter. The feet movement wasn't the problem, it was the lack of blocking on a few of the plays that required him to move his feet or else he was going to be sacked.
I loved Grossman's scramble for about 5 or 6 yards. Anyone else get really pumped on that one?
November 13, 2007
#51 B.A. Baracus said . . .Post 32, MikeB, check it out. And with regards to the happy feet, I will again point out the concept of "purposeful" movements in the pocket. Rex simply doesn't have this concept down yet, the art of moving in the pocket. It's probably his single biggest flaw, and at this point one that he can only improve on through game time.
But why in the name of PO'd do I have to present Rex with unconditional love as the only way to support him? I have been drawn into an argument I'm not real interested in having - I've already explained why I now support Rex at this point in the season. It doesn't mean I have to pretend like the guy doesn't have flaws - he has massive flaws, we all know that! We're all hoping they are minimized in the next game, and his strengths maximized, and maybe he can claw his way into being a good QB.
November 13, 2007
#52 jdawg said . . .The QB conversation is numbing. It seems like the Bears have been existing with a QB controversy for the last 20 years.
I am not really sure at this point which QB gives the Bears chance to win. Although I am not a huge Rex fan, I would probably start him this week because management needs to take one more look at him as a starter before the season is over anyway. However, if the game this weekend results in a loss, Orton needs to see the field as a starter to be evaluated as well before the end of the season.
November 13, 2007
#53 Viva said . . .the SEX CANNON gives the team the best chance to win!
The twelth man will be on all fours!
November 13, 2007
#54 Phillip said . . .There is an saying in the Marines that goes, "don't be a pussy at the point of attack."
With this in mind, we need to take their boisterous 12th man out in the first quarter of the game. If we are to err this week, we should err on the side of aggresion. We should mandate the tempo and go no-huddle the first two series of offense. This will give our line a timing advantage and take away their d's speed. We need to stick a bayonet in their throat.
I believe that this game will be won in the first qtr, and I think Rex is the QB for the job.
November 14, 2007
#55 Max said . . .You know, I wonder if maybe alternating BG and RG is a good gameplan? Well, I should say, good insofar as it maybe won't suck quite as much as what we've got now. Now that BG isn't doing so hot, you throw Sex Cannon in, and when he starts to suck, you throw in Griese. Rinse, repeat.
But maybe that's why I'm not a football coach.
November 14, 2007
#56 jdawg said . . .Philip, i dont know bout the flip idea, but the rinse and repeat line was good.
And Phil that makes sense i suppose, it would be hard to just come in cold. But if this next game goes bad and Rex is the reason, I think Orton should get a majority of the reps in practice and if he looks ready, throw him in against the Broncos. I wanna find out how he is, and i wanna find out ASAP.
November 14, 2007
#57 Shady McBears Fan said . . .did you not hear me?
the SEX CANNON will have the twelth man grabbing his (or her's) ankles!
November 14, 2007
#58 Sleepy McSleep Fan said . . .Viva, although I don't agree with your strategy of betting against the Bears, I think you make a great point about getting off to a fast start in Seattle.
Here's a statistic to consider:
"In eight games this season, the unit has produced just three points in the first quarter, with 17 possessions resulting in 13 punts, two missed field goals, one lost fumble and one field goal.
The Bears’ only first-quarter TD this season came on Devin Hester’s 89-yard punt return in a 34-31 loss to the Minnesota Vikings Oct. 14 at Soldier Field.
While the Bears have scored just seven percent of their points this year in the first quarter, the slow starts began plaguing the offense midway through last season. The offense tallied only one touchdown in its final nine regular-season games, which means that the unit has just one first-quarter TD in its last 17 games."
Pretty terrible, huh?
Surprisingly enough, this is the 1st Bears team to ever have 3 straight 4th quarter comebacks on the road. I still want to say the team is built to grab an early lead, let the defense do it's job and run the clock out on offense, but times they are a changing.
Considering what I've seen this season, I'd feel more comfortable giving the offense a chance to win the game late rather than relying on the defense to get one last stop... I can't believe I just wrote that, but that's what the 2007 Bears have done to me.
November 14, 2007
#59 Viva said . . .I can't stop thinking about the Bears. I'm actually losing sleep over this, and I think it's about Rex Grossman. Are you kidding?
What I'm thinking:
Where will this game land on the spectrum of possible outcomes?
What information should we use to determine the outcome?Worst Case Scenario (WCS) to Best Case Scenario (BCS)
WCS-------1-------2-------3------4------5------6------7------8------9------BCS
What is the best case scenario?
Ask that and my mind runs wild. The Bears are due to catch the all important breaks that swing the momentum of the season in their favor. It's time the Bears win the turnover battle with a strong +2 or +3 turnover comWhat's the worst case scenario?
And my mind wouldn't be surprised to see it happen.Where should a Bears fan place his/her expectations for Sunday's game? Somebody tell me.
November 14, 2007
#60 Viva said . . .Sleepy -
I am conviced the Bears will play their collective best game of the year, and this game will mirror the outcome of last years Sunday night game against the same team.
Here is why:
1. Rex is a leader, and his teammates are loyal to him.
2. They collectively can't stand the media, and nothing motivates them more then proving Mariotti (asshole) wrong.
3. RT can not be blind to the fact that he has been dominated and it can not last forever. Tempo - tempo - tempo.
4. We are going to win the field position/time of possesion battle.
5. Every time Matt Hassleback sees Ricky Manning Jr. he throws an interception.
November 14, 2007
#61 Pissed Off said . . .Shady-
I do not always bet against the Bears. I bet the Bears three weeks ago and lost (-5.5 against the Lions), and again last week and won (thanks Rex).
Trying to win late in Seattle is a compromising position, becasue it is exceptionally loud, which translates to no audibles - false starts - delay of games ..... I was at the Oakland game last weekend (in Bears wear) and saw their fans shuffling out after Rex hit Berrian, I would like to see the fans decimaed in Seattle.
STRIKE EARLY - STRIKE OFTEN - BEAR DOWN
November 14, 2007
#62 Al in WI said . . .Yes I was Phil, just the happy feet aspect, so what? We'll just agree to disagree on this one. I will say that the Colts O-line is far superior even with backups in, to ours when it comes to QB protection though.
Damn Viva I love your ideas, I hope they all work out, I will add, and its been said before that I would love for us to score first and keep a lead. This will help deflate that insanely loud 12th man. It always seems like we are playing from behind but if we can get on the board early and deflate the opposition it would be great. I hope Lovie offically announces Rex the QB today. One game at a time, I dont care what the future holds for Rex but for the good of the team we need him to start Sunday. This team has got to be fired up Sunday, this game is huge. And the Hawks arent anything special but we cant take anyone lightly with this team.
I think Branch will be back so the Hawks pass game will be in full effect but Alexander is banged up and may sit, not sure though so if we can stop the pass, get Vash back and have a full secondary we can win this. Lets get to Hasselbeck early so he has nightmares of last years games.
November 14, 2007
#63 B.A. Baracus said . . .I want to pick up on a point first introduced by startolsen. The comparison to Peyton Manning. Obviously Peyton is the better quarterback without question. And I do realize that he's earned a pass from the media for having a bad game. No arguement there. But I do think the last two Colt games were revealing for the quarterback debate.
Last year into the super bowl all the media wanted to talk about was the mismatch between Rex and Peyton. Okay, what about the mismatch between the supporting cast of the Colts and that of the Bears. I mean honesty right down the line who would you rather have? Harrison or Moose,? colt line or Bears line? Berrian or Wayne? Dallas Clark or des clark? Stokely or Gonzolas or Davis? And so on.
My point is look at the players that surround all the top qb's in the league, and they are better then what we surround our quarterback with. And it makes a difference.
Just look at the last two colt games. Without Harrison and Dallas Clark, Manning has struggled badly. Not to mention the line problems they've had.
Something to keep in mind.November 14, 2007
#64 Pissed Off said . . .Even though I think Rex should get the start, my gut feeling is that, if Griese is medically cleared to play, he will be the starter. It is generally rare in the NFL that a player loses his job because of an injury in a game the week before when he is medically ready to play the very next week. However, who knows who will start at QB with this Bears' coaching staff - they have not given AP the starter's job even though Benson has crapped the bed.
November 14, 2007
#65 StartOlsen said . . .I would somewhat agree with that take AL, moreso with Brady than Manning. Manning had a bad game but generally he is the best in the business year in and year out, even before the emergence of Addai or Edge or Wayne or Clark or Stokely or Gonzalez. I dont think it matters so much the personel around him as much as it does with Brady.
Now Brady you can make that arguement for no doubt. Look at the past crap he's had around in the past, nothing stellar, Branch was good, Troy Brown is OK, Watson is good etc. But now he gets Moss, Welker, Stallworth and he's freaking insane. This will end up being the best season by a QB ever (TD record, rating, few INTs, all of it). In years past he was still above average, mabye in the top 5-10 overall but now he's number one with a bullet making Manning look shabby. I guess you could say then that Brady has always been good and I definitely agree but if you gave Brady and Manning the same personel, I think Manning is better week in and week out. But isnt some of it that the QB makes the WRs etc look so good over the years and thats why we assume they are the reason the QB is so good.
November 14, 2007
#66 Steven said . . .I've been to a game in Seattle, and honestly, I have to tell you those fans are the biggest pussies in the league. Seriouly.
November 14, 2007
#67 DTB said . . .I think we should can Ron Turner and bring back Gary Crowton. He was great.
November 14, 2007
#68 Northside Superfan said . . .After a an ill-concieved three and out to start the game; featuring three Benson runs directly into the back of Roberto Garza, the Sex Cannon sprints off the field in disgust. He arrives at the sidelines where he promptly grabs a football and fires one up toward the coaches box. The extension of Sexys glorious right arm, blasts Turner in the face, knocking him unconcious. Sex Cannon flashes a smile and calmly says to himself," Money Shot. We're going deep from now on, way deep."
November 14, 2007
#69 Max said . . .In case no one saw this yet, a source confirmed to the Tribune...
Rex will start on Sunday.That should make a nice segway to the next post.
Jeff...?
November 14, 2007
#70 Pissed Off said . . .yeah, espn.com is reporting that sources close to Rex that he is going to take back the starting job. . . not a huge suprise
November 14, 2007
#71 Pissed Off said . . .Finally, its official. I picked him up on my fantasy team yesterday anyway knowing it was inevitable. Now you fantasty guys may not say thats a great move but in my league, my only other options were Clemens (vs steelers) Lohsman (vs New England) Boller (vs Doesnt matter cuz he sucks) John Beck (Cleo Lemon was benched so who knows) and Croyle(who knows).
November 14, 2007
#72 Al in WI said . . .C'mon Jeff wheres the next column. This is the biggest game of the year, lets get it pumped up around here. I want to read some stuff about this upcoming battle. Break this thing down. I just wish to hell it was a noon start. I hate late games, I hate em!
November 14, 2007
#73 Pissed Off said . . .Po'd just to follow up on that discussion. Manning is no doubt a great quarterback. Probably the best or 2nd best in the league. But he's also had some advantages that most qb's never have had. Same offensive coordinator and system for 10 years, same supporting cast for the most part all the time. Something to consider.
Anyway, excited about the announcement making it official. I couldn't imagine them not making the move. I can not wait for this game!!!November 14, 2007
Totally agree with your points AL, as always! Lets run the tires off this Rex bandwagon starting this week AL. Whos ON!!!! This sunday I will be methodically swaying in my chair like Leo Mazzonne does in the dugout nervous as hell just disecting every play and taking it ALL in. No casual fan this week, I'm watching every play, every detail.
November 14, 2007
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