The Chicago Bears (5-3) climbed back into the discussion of wild-card entry with their plucky win over the Philadelphia Eagles on MNF. Now, the Bears, who are hot, need to beat Detriot at home this Sunday. The Bears need another solid effort. Getting a win in the NFL is hard and when it comes, so satisfying. But the Bears need not rest on their laurels. They can't afford to.
The Bears are team that is finding itself. They are improving. Witness the play of the offensive line. It didn't give up a sack of QB Jay Cutler the entire game. Only the second such game that he's played with the Bears. Cutler has seen enough hits and sacks to last at least another month. So, why stop now? Keep giving him time to be Jay Cutler, an explosive, sometimes unpredictable player who takes risks when he sees them and is afraid to put the ball in play.
If he has time, Cutler will find a receiver. He'll likely make positive yardage. If he is rushed, all bets are off. You never know with Cutler. At least Jim McMahon was a little more consistent. He was a gutsy, team leader, who almost willed his team down the field. It helped that the defense give him the ball across the 50 many times.
I am impressed with the Bears team speed. On offense and defense. These guys have gotten it done since their debacle in Detriot about a month ago. Matt Forte needs to continue to bust through and make plays. The Bears are a rushing team. They can't rely on Cutler to win them the game. The defense needs to tighten up and stop teams from moving down the field. I don't see the Bears winning many shoot-outs.
Don't know the status of Devin Hester. He is so important to this team. Hopefully his injury is not serious. If he is healthy the Bears have a threat. He certainly makes things interesting when he gets the ball.
